How to review and comment on a 404-permit notice

A 404 Permit Notice provides a summary of the project, maps, mitigation information, deadlines for comments, the name of the applicant and the Army Corps Project Manager whom you may contact for more information.

• Get a copy of the permit.
• If you have concerns and plan to submit comments, call the Corps project manager to get a better understanding of the proposal and to express your concerns. Project managers are often in the field; leave a detailed voice mail message to keep the process moving.
• You may call the consultant listed on the public notice and ask for a site visit. S/he can also provide you with additional information such as wetland delineation maps and/or upland alternatives analysis.
• Write a letter to describe your concerns. How does the project impact wetlands, streams, water quality, flooding, erosion, fish and wildlife? If you are aware of upland alternatives, mention them. Encourage avoidance and minimization of the impacts. Include the permit application number so your comments are applied to the appropriate project.
• Send copies of your letters to the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, NOAA Fisheries (if applicable), your state wildlife agency, the state water quality agency and your local planning department. Coordinate your comments with fish and wildlife agencies for maximum effectiveness.
• Be aware of deadlines. The official comment period only lasts 15-30 days.

< Back to Previous Page