My property has a wetland. What should I do?

Protection of the Potomac Creek-Long Branch watershed in Stafford, Virginia, from development, including electric towers, falls under local zoning ordinances and state-level environmental regulations, particularly the Chesapeake Bay Preservation Act.

State Corporation Commission (SCC): For utility projects like electric transmission lines, Virginia law requires approval from the SCC. The SCC process involves environmental review and public input.
Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ): The DEQ oversees water quality standards and issues permits (e.g., Virginia Stormwater Management Program, MS4 permits) that require measures to reduce erosion and sediment flow into impaired waters like Long Branch.

Actionable Steps for Residents

If there is a proposed electric tower project, residents can take the following steps to voice concerns and understand the regulations:

Contact Stafford County Planning Department: Reach out to the Stafford County Planning and Zoning Department to inquire about the specific parcel referenced as “PL59,” any proposed projects, the applicable zoning, and if the area is within a designated RPA or RMA.
Engage the Board of Supervisors: Alert the Stafford County Board of Supervisors to ensure they are aware of community concerns regarding the watershed and potential electric towers.
Participate in SCC Proceedings: If a utility company like Dominion Energy files an application with the Virginia SCC for a new transmission line, track the case and participate in public comment periods and hearings. The SCC website will have details on active cases.
Coordinate with Advocacy Groups: Partner with local environmental groups such as the Potomac Conservancy or the Potomac Riverkeeper Network, who are actively involved in land conservation and water resource protection efforts in the area.

These actions can help ensure that all environmental protections are appropriately considered during any planning or approval process.