Posted on February 2, 2023
The Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation is seeking assumption of the dredge and fill permitting program under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (CWA). Designed for states’ assumption, Section 404 regulates the discharge of dredged or fill material into waters of the United States (WOTUS), including wetlands. Alaska has a vested interest in assuming the program considering approximately 43% of Alaska’s surface is wetlands – including tundra, permafrost areas, marshes, bogs and similar areas. Activities regulated under this program that require a permit include fill for development (residential, commercial, or recreational), water resource projects (such as dams and levees), infrastructure development (such as highways and airports), and mining projects.
In the FY 2023 budget, the Alaska Legislature approved funding for DEC to evaluate assumption of Section 404 of the Clean Water Act and prepare a feasibility study.
NEW: CWA Dredge and Fill Program Assumption Feasibility Report 1-26-23 (PDF)
