Hydric Soils (NRCS)

This is one of three wetland layers in the database.

This layer shows potential wetlands indicated by the presence of hydric (wetland) soils as mapped by the US National Resource Conservation Service (NRCS).  Hydric soils often indicate current or historic wetland habitat, but were not mapped specifically to estimate wetland habitat.  This layer is a great resource as it was developed prior to most development and provides a historical mapped record of wetlands that are hard to detect in current aerials. Most wetlands are highly regulated by federal, state, and local agencies. Permits are required to impact regulated wetland habitat.

Regulations require that wetlands must be avoided as much as possible. After impacts to wetlands are justified, mitigation to offset the impact such as creating new wetlands on site or purchasing mitigation credits is required at a cost ranging from $50,000-$200,000 per acre (not including permitting costs) depending on habitat quality and type. Final determination of wetland boundaries is determined by field inspection.

Hire a qualified environmental consultant if this layer is showing on a property you are about to purchase.