28 Other Wetland Aquisition Considerations 



water) should be assessed to determine if they may adversely affect a 

 potential wetland site. 



Land use activities proposed on a potential acquisition site should be 

 compatible with protection of the wetland functions and values. Hunting, 

 fishing, trapping, boating and birdwatching are examples of recreational 

 activities in wetlands that through proper management could be 

 compatible with maintaining the integrity of the wetland site. 



The relative size of a wetland site, particularly small wetlands, should 

 not in itself disqualify it from priority consideration for acquisition or 

 management Certain acquisition processes are better suited to smaller 

 units while some realize increased efficiency in larger units. The 

 diversity of interests among entities considering wetland acquisitions 

 (e.g.. Federal, State and local governmental agencies, private organiza- 

 tions) that may refer to the NWPCP for guidance, necessitates an open- 

 minded approach. 



G. IMPLEMENTATION GUIDANCE 



The following guidance is provided to assist in implementing this 

 NWPCP and fulfilling its purpose. 



The Act directs the establishment of a NWPCP for setting acquisition 

 priority by specifically considering wetland losses, vulnerability and 

 functions and values. The goal of priority setting is to establish a system 

 that leads to selecting the rare or declining wetland types within the more 

 important and vulnerable wetland sites in the U.S. The NWPCP 

 Threshold Criteria establish minimal standards for projects to be 

 considered for possible funding under the LWCF authority. Section 304 of 

 the Act only authorizes the Secretary to acquire wetlands with LWCF 

 appropriations; therefore, Federal agencies must use other authorities and 

 funding sources to restore, enhance and/or manage wetlands acquired 

 under the LWCF authority. However, the LWCF Act authorizes the 

 Secretary to provide financial assistance to the States for planning, 

 acquisition and development of land and waters. In keeping with the 

 fragile nature of wetlands, any development should not degrade the 

 wetland. 



