ACEC/MA Comments on MassDEP Draft MEP Guidance for replacement stream crossings

ACEC/MA Comments on MassDEP Draft MEP Guidance for replacement stream crossings 

The MassDEP Wetlands Program recently requested comments on a Draft Guidance for Meeting the Massachusetts Stream Crossing Standards to the Maximum Extent Practicable to be submitted by March 28, 2025.

In response, ACEC/MA's Water, Energy, and Environment Committee (WEEC) formed a task force to develop comments for DEP’s MA Stream Crossing Standards for MEP. ACEC/MA is grateful to the task force for its efficient and thorough work.

Here is a copy of the ACEC/MA comment letter (unsigned version)

Here is the attachment (opens in word). 

When MassDEP issues final guidance, we will share that with ACEC/MA Members.

Background:

MassDEP issued draft guidance on meeting the MA Stream Crossing Standards to the Maximum Extent Practicable (MEP) pursuant to 310 CMR 10.53(4)(e)2.c. and 10.53(8)(a).

• The guidance proposes standards that will require extensive analysis and plan development – minimum of 3 options for every culvert or bridge crossing- to be stamped by a PE, greatly increasing project costs.

Here is a link to the guidance on their webpage. The draft stream crossing guidance is the first bullet. https://www.mass.gov/guides/wetlands-information#-wetlands-guidance-

Here  is the powerpoint presentation from DEP with more information 

MassDEP’s (DEP) proposed guidance is intended to establish appropriate level of alternatives analysis to meet the Maximum Extent Practicable (MEP) requirements of DEP’s Stream Crossing Standards.