{"id":5222,"date":"2025-09-22T13:01:09","date_gmt":"2025-09-22T20:01:09","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/engage.gov.bc.ca\/watersustainabilityact\/?p=5222"},"modified":"2026-02-24T10:24:40","modified_gmt":"2026-02-24T18:24:40","slug":"engagement-opportunity-applying-the-mitigation-hierarchy-for-wetlands","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/engage.gov.bc.ca\/watersustainabilityact\/2025\/09\/22\/engagement-opportunity-applying-the-mitigation-hierarchy-for-wetlands\/","title":{"rendered":"Engagement opportunity: Applying the mitigation hierarchy for wetlands"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Wetlands in B.C. are under increasing development pressures. It is important to explore opportunities to maintain these valuable natural assets.\u202fThis post explores whether and how to strengthen the application of the environmental mitigation hierarchy under the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bclaws.gov.bc.ca\/civix\/document\/id\/complete\/statreg\/14015\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Water Sustainability Act<\/span><\/a> <span data-contrast=\"auto\">(WSA). This would be done to support more predictable, transparent, and effective permitting processes, leading to improved wetland outcomes while fostering sustainable economic development.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Requiring the application of the mitigation hierarchy, or ensuring that its steps are followed, is expected to provide clarity and improve processes and outcomes. Your input is invited on whether, how, when and where such requirements can and should apply, as well as what guidance and tools can support effective implementation.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">What is the mitigation hierarchy?<\/span><\/b><\/h2>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www2.gov.bc.ca\/gov\/content\/environment\/natural-resource-stewardship\/laws-policies-standards-guidance\/environmental-guidance-and-policy\/environmental-mitigation-policy\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">British Columbia\u2019s Environmental Mitigation Policy (EMP)<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> endorses the mitigation hierarchy, a globally recognized framework to manage environmental impacts. Since its introduction in 2014, it has been applied across B.C. on a range of projects with different kinds of environmental impacts. The mitigation hierarchy is a step-by-step approach where all reasonable measures should be considered and applied at one level before moving to the next:<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Avoid<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> impacts wherever possible<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Minimize<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> impacts that cannot be avoided<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Restore on-site<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> environmental values<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Offset<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> residual impacts as a last resort<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<figure id=\"attachment_5101\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-5101\" style=\"width: 1024px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-5101 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/engage.gov.bc.ca\/app\/uploads\/sites\/71\/2025\/09\/mitigation-hierarchy-graphic-1024x515.png\" alt=\"A chart demonstrating the iterative application of steps in the mitigation hierarchy to achieve the smallest practicable residual loss.\" width=\"1024\" height=\"515\" srcset=\"https:\/\/engage.gov.bc.ca\/app\/uploads\/sites\/71\/2025\/09\/mitigation-hierarchy-graphic-1024x515.png 1024w, https:\/\/engage.gov.bc.ca\/app\/uploads\/sites\/71\/2025\/09\/mitigation-hierarchy-graphic-300x151.png 300w, https:\/\/engage.gov.bc.ca\/app\/uploads\/sites\/71\/2025\/09\/mitigation-hierarchy-graphic-768x386.png 768w, https:\/\/engage.gov.bc.ca\/app\/uploads\/sites\/71\/2025\/09\/mitigation-hierarchy-graphic-1536x773.png 1536w, https:\/\/engage.gov.bc.ca\/app\/uploads\/sites\/71\/2025\/09\/mitigation-hierarchy-graphic.png 1596w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-5101\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Demonstrates the iterative application of steps in the mitigation hierarchy to achieve the smallest practicable residual loss (adapted from A Cross-Sector Guide for Implementing the Mitigation Hierarchy)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">What\u2019s the challenge?<\/span><\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Because applicants aren\u2019t required to show they\u2019ve taken all reasonable steps in the mitigation hierarchy, there are challenges for permitting efficiency and environmental outcomes for wetlands, including:<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Lack of clarity and consistency: <\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">There is uncertainty in the application process. Applicants aren\u2019t always sure what\u2019s expected of them regarding moving through the steps of the mitigation planning and decision-makers find it challenging to set and enforce consistent expectations when reviewing applications.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Limited consideration of Avoid and Minimize: <\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Mitigation plans tend to focus on compensation measures first, before fully exploring opportunities to avoid and minimize impacts. When \u201cAvoid\u201d and \u201cMinimize\u201d are overlooked in the mitigation hierarchy or delayed in project planning, cost-effective and environmental solutions can be missed.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Delays and increased costs: <\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Applications that don&#8217;t fully address the mitigation hierarchy often lead to extended review timelines, more back-and-forth with regulators, and higher costs for applicants.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Less effective environmental outcomes: <\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Ultimately, project design and mitigations may not be informed to the extent possible, resulting in poorer outcomes<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">What\u2019s being proposed?<\/span><\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">To address these challenges, a proposed solution is to ensure the mitigation hierarchy is applied for changes in and about wetlands under the WSA. The goal is that applications would describe which reasonable measures were explored to avoid and minimize impacts, before the consideration of restoration on-site. Consideration of offsetting any remaining impacts would be the last step.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">At the same time, the Province intends to develop mitigation guidance specific to wetlands. This will complement the EMP, providing science-based support for consistent mitigation planning and decision-making that can be adaptable to site-specific needs.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Moving from the current approach to a clear requirement to apply the mitigation hierarchy in applications, supported by wetland-specific mitigation guidance, is expected to lead to:<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Consistent and fair application of the mitigation hierarchy:<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> Offers clearer expectations for proponents and regulators under the WSA, reducing inconsistency and improving the overall quality of applications and environmental outcomes for wetlands.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Improve transparency and public trust:<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> Allows for more consistent mitigation planning and compliance.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Improved permitting processes:<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> Clearer expectations can result in more comprehensive and accurate applications, leading to faster, more predictable permitting processes.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Improved environmental outcomes:<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> Improved stewardship of wetlands by limiting and\/or compensating for project impacts, while supporting sustainable development.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Cost savings:<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> Earlier planning and prioritizing avoidance and minimization of impacts can reduce permit delays, lower legal risks, and decrease the need for costly compensation measures later in the process.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">By considering whether to require the application of the mitigation hierarchy, B.C. can potentially build a more predictable, transparent, and effective system for wetland management. Such a shift could support protection of wetlands and encourage sustainable economic growth.\u202f<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">We want to hear from you <\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Your feedback will help shape this proposal:<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">What challenges and opportunities do you see in requiring the application of the mitigation hierarchy under the WSA?\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">How might requiring the application of the mitigation hierarchy under the WSA impact you, your organization or your community?<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:279,&quot;335559991&quot;:360}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">What other solutions should be considered to address the challenges described in this post?<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Thank you for your feedback.<\/h3>\n<p><strong>The survey closed December 12, 2025.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Learn more about our other identified <\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">opportunities<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> to improve natural resource permitting <a href=\"https:\/\/engage.gov.bc.ca\/govtogetherbc\/engagement\/natural-resource-permitting-improvements\">on the govTogetherBC website<\/a>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Wetlands in B.C. are under increasing development pressures. It is important to explore opportunities to maintain these valuable natural assets.\u202fThis post explores whether and how to strengthen the application of the environmental mitigation hierarchy under the Water Sustainability Act (WSA). This would be done to support more predictable, transparent, and effective permitting processes, leading to &hellip; <a href=\"https:\/\/engage.gov.bc.ca\/watersustainabilityact\/2025\/09\/22\/engagement-opportunity-applying-the-mitigation-hierarchy-for-wetlands\/\">Continued<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":8247,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[17,8,75],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-5222","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-blog","category-engagement","category-front"],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/engage.gov.bc.ca\/watersustainabilityact\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5222","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/engage.gov.bc.ca\/watersustainabilityact\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/engage.gov.bc.ca\/watersustainabilityact\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/engage.gov.bc.ca\/watersustainabilityact\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/8247"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/engage.gov.bc.ca\/watersustainabilityact\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=5222"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/engage.gov.bc.ca\/watersustainabilityact\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5222\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":5556,"href":"https:\/\/engage.gov.bc.ca\/watersustainabilityact\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5222\/revisions\/5556"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/engage.gov.bc.ca\/watersustainabilityact\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=5222"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/engage.gov.bc.ca\/watersustainabilityact\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=5222"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/engage.gov.bc.ca\/watersustainabilityact\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=5222"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}