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CITY OF LINO LAS 10/24/94 Wetland Resources Management System Classification of Wetlands The purpose of the Wetland Resources Management System, presented in the Local Plan, is to guide the City on how identified wetland areas are to be maintained. To best spend City monies on wetland areas it is important to identify their primary function. Based on its classification, budget and capital improvement programs will be established to assure a wetland or ponding area continues to prevent flooding, improves water quality, or enhances wildlife habitat. In some instances the area is private, state, or county owned, or has no identified function. These areas will not be classified. This means that the City does not intend to spend funds maintaining the area. In all instances this classification system does not replace federal, state, WMO, or City regulation of wetlands. To better manage water resources in the urban setting, a classification system that relates wetland use and function to maintenance and protection levels is needed. Many wetlands are protected by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and Department of Natural Resources or by watershed districts. As a result, several classification systems have been established, most of which use a biological basis to classify areas. However, none of the current classifications deal with the function, use or maintenance of wetland areas. Management of urban wetlands requires a method that relates wetland use and function values to maintenance and protection. Regulatory authority over wetlands is currently divided between the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the Department of Natural Resources, and Local Government Unit (LGU). Some communities also regulate wetlands through ordinances. Implementation of the regulatory programs is the responsibility of local units of governments. Therefore, wetland management must become a local function. Previous wetland management efforts have focused on classification and evaluation of wetlands. Classification systems Local Water Management Plan SEH No. A- LINOL9402.00 Reference Document Page 50