The Mitigation Banking Group, Inc.

What is the process for becoming a Mitigation Bank? Mitigation banks are highly regulated by environmental agencies. Before a bank can be permitted and approved for credit sales, federal and state government regulatory agencies form an Interagency Review Team (IRT) that must approve plans for building the bank, including for example the hydrological and planting design, maintenance, and monitoring arrangements. The IRT also approves the number of mitigation credits that may be earned by the Banker. Additionally, the proposed bank must provide financial assurance to the agencies. This covers the cost of construction and implementation of the bank and provides for the perpetual management and maintenance required by the permit. #MitigationBanking #EnvironmentalRegulations #WetlandConservation #SustainableDevelopment

🚨 The Trump Administration's new Presidential Memo 🚨 (PM) on Updating Permitting Technology holds promise—but it depends on how it's implemented. The PM directs 🏛️federal agencies to “make maximum use of 🤖 technology in 🌿environmental review and permitting processes for infrastructure projects of all kinds, such as roads, bridges, mines, factories, power plants, and others.” On the face of it, this looks like a 🦄dream directive🦄 , particularly as it echoes so much of what we’ve been recommending for modernizing and streamlining permitting processes. But it all depends on how it’s implemented (see pros and cons below and read on for more insight https://lnkd.in/gXqFxnpb). Environmental Policy Innovation Center is here to work with folks to build a permitting process that is smart, efficient, and as dynamic as the environmental challenges we face. Please reach out to any one of us via email if you’d like to discuss further Danielle Bissett, CERP, WEDG Jessica Mahr Concerns: The dissolution of 18F, layoffs, and hiring freezes have reduced the tech talent pool and will inhibit the Administration’s ability to deliver on this PM. There’s also the concern that the PM will *solely* be used to speed the Admin’s favorite energy projects, with environmental impacts outpacing the required mitigation. Pros: There are also potential positives that could establish the foundation for smart permitting and better outcomes. Eliminating paper applications and automating certain tasks only removes drudgery without impacting the quality of reviews. Re-using data and analyses of previous permits… yes, please! Better transparency and predictability of project permitting schedules? It worked great for the state of Virginia - saving citizens over $1.2 billion! Check our blog in the link above for a point-by-point review. Timothy Male Phoebe Higgins Permitting Council Michael Drummond Jennifer Pahlka #permitstreamlining #permitefficiency #permittingtech #permittingtechnology #ePermitting #AIforGood #environmentalpermitting #NEPA #CleanWaterAct #EndangeredSpeciesAct #CleanAirAct

On April 17, 2025, the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS) and National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) introduced a proposal to redefine the term "harm" within the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Currently, the ESA does not explicitly define "harm," leading to differing interpretations by the USFWS and NMFS, which encompass activities such as habitat modification for ESA-listed species. The proposed revision aims to revoke the existing definitions of "harm," potentially streamlining development on lands designated as endangered species habitat. Stakeholders have a 30-day window to provide feedback on the proposed change, with expectations of legal challenges looming ahead. #USFWS #NMFS #ESA #Chevron #LoperBright https://lnkd.in/g7XDA69t

Thinking about establishing a mitigation bank in Florida? This guide covers everything you need to know, from regulatory steps to cost expectations and timeline realities. Learn how to evaluate your land, navigate the permitting process, and maximize its conservation value: https://lnkd.in/eziYUfHC

Yesterday, the NMFS and USFWS announced the proposed rule to rescind the definition of "harm" under the ESA and habitat protection for ESA listed species will no longer be considered. The proposed rule was published today and public comment ends May 19. https://lnkd.in/ewG-TQHC

The latest Executive Order on Zero-Based Regulatory Budgeting poses a direct threat to the environmental frameworks that support mitigation banking. We’re closely tracking this policy shift and coordinating with state agencies, legal experts, and industry leaders to defend the integrity of our field. This is a pivotal moment for wetland mitigation and private conservation. Read our full strategic breakdown of what this order means for mitigation banking and what we can do about it: https://lnkd.in/efMmezqu

Defining WOTUS: “Continuous Surface Connection” Informational Listening Sessions: The EPA and USACE will gather information from the public via Listening Sessions. Topics on which EPA will request input include: -Scope of ‘relatively permanent’ waters -Scope of ‘continuous surface connection’ -What it means to ‘abut’ a jurisdictional water -Temporary interruptions in surface connection (as referenced in the Sackett decision) -Scope of jurisdictional ditches Listening Session for Environmental and Conservation Stakeholders: May 1, 2025 from 1:00 - 3:30 p.m. ET (Virtual and at EPA Headquarters in Washington, D.C.) Sign Up to Listen: https://lnkd.in/ebwXRm-F

The Florida Legislature has officially passed SB 492 and HB 1175, bringing major updates to the state’s mitigation banking regulations. These new laws create a standardized credit release schedule, introduce flexibility for out-of-service-area credit use, and establish new reporting requirements for mitigation banks. At MBG we’re actively helping clients understand how these changes will impact credit availability, permitting timelines, and project planning. Read the full breakdown of what this legislation means for mitigation bankers, developers, and consultants across Florida: https://lnkd.in/ecQ2v4qF

Prescribed burns are an essential part of land and wildlife management in Florida! Here are some random but interesting and useful facts about them: ✨ Many species, like the gopher tortoise and red-cockaded woodpecker, thrive in areas that experience regular burns. The fire clears out invasive species and provides a habitat for wildlife. 🐢 By burning off dry vegetation in a controlled environment, prescribed burns help reduce the amount of fuel for potential wildfires, ultimately preventing larger, uncontrolled fires. 🔥  Prescribed burns are a win-win for Florida’s land and wildlife! 🌿🔥 🔗 For more information, click here: https://lnkd.in/eaaScW6C   #PrescribedBurns  #WildlifeConservation #FloridaWildlife