Planning
Watershed Planning
DMS uses multi-scale watershed planning to identify the best locations to implement stream, wetland and riparian-buffer restoration. The planning process considers things such as where mitigation is needed and how DMS implementation efforts might contribute to the improvement of water and habitat quality in the state.
Watershed planning encompasses a variety of inputs which can include, but is not necessarily limited to GIS data analysis, stakeholder involvement, water-quality and habitat monitoring and consideration of local land uses and ordinances. It is a multidimensional process which considers science, policy and partnerships.
River Basin Restoration Priorities
The Division of Mitigation Services (DMS) develops River Basin Restoration Priorities (RBRPs) for each of the 17 river basins in North Carolina by conducting a detailed screening for each service area within a river basin. This screening results in the identification of Targeted Resource Areas (TRAs): adjacent clusters of catchments that exhibit the greatest need for restoration and protection. The TRAs receive priority for DMS planning and restoration project funds.
Regional Watershed Planning
Regional watershed planning (RWP) is intended to build upon existing planning efforts, including Local Watershed Plans and RBRP priorities, as well as stakeholder momentum. RWPs evaluate aquatic resource conditions and identify priorities based upon watershed functions utilizing existing data and modeled watershed conditions. This allows DMS to focus implementation of compensatory-mitigation projects in watersheds that exhibit the greatest opportunity for improvement.
Local Watershed Planning
Local watershed planning is conducted in specific priority areas where DMS and the local community have identified a need to address crucial watershed issues. Through this planning process, DMS collaborates with local stakeholders and resource professionals to identify implementation opportunities and management strategies to restore, enhance and protect local watershed resources.
More information on watershed planning efforts is available by contacting Anjie Ackerman.