SUMMARY

In FY 2005-06, the Department of Natural Resources spent $1.75 million on wetland regulatory activities that include permitting, enforcement, and mapping. Permits were generally issued within 120 days, as required by statute, but the complex process can be confusing for applicants. We found that efforts to verify compliance with permit requirements could be improved, and the Department could consider increased use of compensatory mitigation for projects in which wetland losses are likely to be approved.