S. 2215: Restoring America’s Floodplains Act

The Restoring America’s Floodplains Act aims to amend the Agricultural Credit Act of 1978, specifically focusing on the restoration and management of floodplain easements. Below are the key elements of the bill:

Objectives

The primary goal of this bill is to enhance the restoration and management of wetlands and vegetative cover in floodplain areas across the United States. It indicates a legislative effort to address floodplain management more effectively.

Financial and Technical Assistance

The bill empowers the Secretary of Agriculture to provide:

• Financial assistance: Support to landowners for the restoration of adapted vegetative cover and the hydrologic functions of wetlands.
• Technical assistance: Guidance on best practices for restoring and managing floodplain areas.

Easement Restoration

The bill establishes a mechanism for restoring wetland areas that have been impacted. The Secretary of Agriculture can implement restoration practices aimed at improving the ecological health of floodplains.

Easement Management

In addition to restoration, the bill outlines that the Secretary has discretion to:

• Enter into agreements with landowners for compatible uses of the land.
• Collaborate with government agencies and non-governmental organizations to maintain and manage restored areas effectively.

Modification and Termination of Floodplain Easements

The legislation provides the Secretary with the authority to modify or terminate existing floodplain easements, allowing for adjustments based on evolving land management needs or conservation goals.

Implications

By implementing these measures, the bill seeks to improve the ecological integrity of floodplain areas, enhance water management, and address issues related to flooding and wetland degradation.

Relevant Companies

None found