Compromise eases rules on development near wetlands
A Board of Environmental Protection compromise over development near wetlands is satisfying environmental groups and landowners, but still must pass muster with lawmakers.
The BEP on Thursday approved the rules making it easier for property owners to get building permits near property deemed "moderate habitat" for waterfowl and wading birds, according to the Bangor Daily News. The new rules allow landowners to use an expedited review process to receive a permit within 14 days following DEP staff approval; the current process requires feedback from other state agencies and abutters. The Maine Department of Environmental Protection sought to change the rules following complaints that they hampered business growth and infringed on landowners' property rights. Environmental groups said DEP's changes were too lenient, however, leading the BEP to hold a public hearing in December to field concerns. The compromise extends the buffer around such habitat from 100 to 150 feet and requires additional consultation on any projects built when birds are nesting or breeding between April and July.
Nick Bennett, staff scientist at the Natural Resources Council of Maine, said the changes are a major improvement over existing rules, and DEP Commissioner Patricia Aho said she was also pleased with the result. The Legislature's Environment and Natural Resources Committee must now review the changes.
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