^■^n^^ UNITED STATES ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY 



I ^22^ ^ WASHINGTON. D.C. 20460 



% 



3^ 



JUN28 1989 



OFFICE OF 

 WATER 



NOTE TO THF RBADFl^ 



I am pleased to introduce this handbook, "Wetlands and 401 Certification," 

 developed by EPA's Office of Wetlands Protection. This document examines the 

 Section 401 State water quality certification process and how it applies to wetlands. We 

 strongfy encourage States to use this handbook as one reference when establishing a 

 wetlands protection program or improving wetlands protection tools. 



Protection of wetland resources has become an important national priority as 

 evidenced by President Bush's 1990 Budget statement calling for "no net loss" of 

 wetiands. In addition, the National Wetlands Policy Forum included a recommendation 

 in their 1988 report which says that States should "make more aggressive use of their 

 certification authorities under Section 401 of the Qean Water Act, to protect wetlands 

 from chemical and other types of alterations". This handbook is intended to help States 

 do just that 



EPA would like to work with States who wish to delve into 401 certification for 

 ^ wetlands. You will find EPA Regional contacts listed in ^pendix A of the document 



The Office of Wetlands Protection plans to provide additional technical support 

 including guidance focused on wetland-specific water quality standards. 



It is very important to begin now to address the loss and degradation of this 

 nation's wetlands. That is why 401 certification is a perfect tool, aheady in place, for 

 States just getting started. It can also help States fiU some gaps in their own statutory 

 authorities protecting wetlands. States can make great strides using their existing 401 

 certification authorities, while developing the capability and the complementary 

 programs to provide more comprehensive protection for wetiands in the future. 



avis 



Director 



Office of Wetlands Protection 



