Action | General Review of Regulations Governing Certified Professional Wetland Delineators |
Stage | NOIRA |
Comment Period | Ended on 12/8/2023 |
I do not support the proposed changes to the regulations of Certified Professional Wetland Delineators (PWD). The recently approved changes to the Universal License Recognition (ULR) mandates that the number of years of experience that a PWD applicant possess is three years. Since the number of years of experience has been shortened, it is essential to maintain the education and field experience of the PWD requirements. A lot goes into performing an accurate delineation. Our clients are trusting our work. The current PWD represents to clients that we have the knowledge and experience to accurately apply the USACE 87 manual, regional supplements and subsequent guidance documents. I urge DPOR to acknowledge the value of the PWD and recommend the retention of existing educational requirements, the 32-hour delineation course, mentorship, and oversight by existing PWDs of applicants and of the PWD certification.