One of the many services we offer in the Southern Maryland region is Forest Stand Delineation (FSD). But when would you need an FSD, and what exactly is it?
Simply put, Forest Stand Delineations, paired with Forest Conservation Plans, are crucial for preserving resources in the forest. The Forest Conservation Act of Maryland was designed with this common goal in mind. Any time your project requires an application for a subdivision, grading permit, or sediment control permit on an area that is about an acre or more, you will need an FSD.
So what is an FSD, and what is included?
A Forest Stand Delineation, or FSD, is a catalog of all of the environmental features of your site. It includes information about all of the vegetation, wetlands, and terrain which could be disturbed during construction. Included is a narrative of the general site characteristics as well as a map showing where they are located.
Certain elements may exist on the site which deem it more sensitive, such as specimen trees, champion trees, endangered species, streams, or steep slopes. The ecosystem could be negatively impacted if these elements are disturbed during the development.
Save time by preparing an FSD ahead of the site planning process in order to incorporate sensitive areas into the site plans. Different counties have different requirements, and an FSD must be prepared by a professional who meets the qualifications set by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. Contact us today so that we can take care of this process for you.
