Executive Order 11990, Protection of Wetlands, 1977
Description and Intent
The purpose of Executive Order 11990 is to "minimize the destruction, loss or degradation of wetlands and to preserve and enhance the natural and beneficial values of wetlands". To meet these objectives, the order requires federal agencies, in planning their actions, to consider alternatives to wetland sites and limit potential damage if an activity affecting a wetland cannot be avoided. The order applies to:
- acquisition, management, and disposition of federal lands and facilities construction and improvement projects which are undertaken, financed or assisted by federal agencies;
- Federal activities and programs affecting land use, including but not limited to water and related land resources planning, regulation and licensing activities.
Summary of Requirements
The procedures require the determination of whether or not the proposed project will be in or will affect wetlands. If so, a wetlands assessment must be prepared that describes the alternatives considered. The procedures include a requirement for public review of assessments. The evaluation process follows the same 8 steps as for EO 11988, Floodplain Management.
Useful Links
Useful Information to Assist in FEMA's EHP Review
Text of Executive Order 11990, Protection of Wetlands, 1977 (PDF 182KB, TXT 7KB)
US Fish and Wildlife Service National Wetlands Inventory
44 CFR Part 9
Floodplain Executive Order (PDF 280KB)
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Adobe Acrobat (PDF)Last Modified: Wednesday, 11-Aug-2010 14:15:15 EDT
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