Are wetland areas included in stream buffer mitigation areas?

Wetland areas are often not included in stream buffer mitigation areas to avoid double-counting. Stream buffers and wetlands serve different ecological functions, and including wetlands in stream buffer calculations could result in an overlap of credits that misrepresents the area’s ecological benefits. This practice ensures that each ecological feature is accounted for uniquely, thereby maintaining the integrity of environmental mitigation efforts. By distinguishing between wetlands and stream buffer areas, regulatory frameworks can more accurately assess and promote the ecological health of adjacent aquatic systems.