In 1989, the first Bush Administration formally adopted the national policy of no net loss of wetlands. Consequently, the issue of wetlands matters to anyone who wants to do something with land. On rare occasions, it’s a nonissue, and clients can simply proceed with projects. However, given that Louisiana is a coastal state, Liskow’s ability to help clients manage this aspect of environmental law is a pivotal, and invaluable, capability.
Overview
We have experience in handling wetlands issues in virtually every conceivable context. This can affect, for example, builders seeking to construct anything from a strip mall shopping center to a major industrial development. Scenarios range from clients who want to alter its use – extending a dock, for example – to developers seeking to acquire land who need to know what kind of permitting is required to landowners who accidentally engage in unpermitted uses.
Permitting takes priority
Our lawyers are skilled in handling the permitting aspects of wetlands. We assist landowners in obtaining after-the-fact permits, managing and mitigating exposure to fines and penalties, and negotiating resolution with regulatory agencies. We are also knowledgeable with respect to title issues connected with wetlands property, from squatters to individual Louisiana parishes regarding easements, rights to canals, and so on. Finally, there are few wetlands-related situations we haven’t seen. We have counseled clients facing historic preservation issues arising from slave burial grounds on property. We have helped clients determine which agencies have jurisdiction, and what kind of permit will be needed.