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Statewide Wetlands Technical Team Holds First Meeting
Richmond, VA — On Dec. 16, the inaugural meeting of the Statewide Wetlands Technical Team took place with representatives of more than a dozen state, federal, and non-governmental agencies and organizations present.
This team, made up of technical experts and experienced service providers, was called together by Governor Glenn Youngkin to enhance communication, collaboration, and data-sharing across the sector, particularly as the Commonwealth looks towards the next phase of Virginia’s Chesapeake Bay restoration efforts.
The Statewide Wetlands Technical Team was established as part of Governor Youngkin’s Executive Directive Ten, Positioning the Commonwealth of Virginia for Continued Success in Chesapeake Bay Restoration. As the Department of Wildlife Resources authored the Virginia Wetlands Action Plan, it was designated to coordinate the team. Work will focus on improving coordination and communication around wetlands restoration and creation, as well as supporting wetland tracking, strategic planning, capacity building, and sustainable funding, including partnerships that leverage private sector investment.
During this inaugural meeting, representatives discussed their entities’ different areas of expertise and how coordination could help with overall capacity building. In addition, several initial priorities were identified, including tracking restored and enhanced wetlands acreage, data collection, and communication coordination across member organizations. The Statewide Wetlands Technical Team will meet again during the first quarter of 2025 and develop a regular meeting schedule.