9VAC25-770-70: Compensatory mitigation requirements

A. Compensatory mitigation for any project subject to a VWP permit must include measures to avoid and reduce impacts to surface waters to the maximum extent practicable, and where impacts cannot be avoided, the means by which compensation will be accomplished to achieve no net loss of wetland acreage and function.

B. The applicable compensatory mitigation standards are described in 9VAC25-210-80 and 9VAC25-210-115 of the Virginia Water Protection Permit Program Regulation. All aspects of the compensatory mitigation plan, including documentation of financial responsibility or proof of mitigation bank credit purchase or in-lieu fee fund donation, shall be finalized, submitted and approved by the department prior to the onset of any dredging activities in permitted impact areas.