Federal Wetland / Waters Regulatory Policy
Course Overview
The Federal Wetland / Waters Regulatory Policy course equips you with the essential knowledge to navigate the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers permit process efficiently, minimizing costs and delays. Gain a solid understanding of federal laws, regulations, and policies, along with the impact of judicial decisions. Build familiarity with key terminology, definitions, nationwide and individual permits, mitigation policies, and the administrative appeals process. Develop a clear grasp of the roles of involved agencies and learn how to effectively manage the regulatory process.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) modified and reissued Nationwide Permits (NWPs) in a rule effective March 15, 2026, replacing older versions, with 57 permits now active until March 15, 2031. WTI instructors will analyze the new rule and share relevant updates to the online course when they take effect so all participants are aware of changes.
NOTE: This course includes all the content from the Nationwide Permits course, along with in-depth coverage of policy topics. Participants should register for either Federal Wetland / Waters Regulatory Policy or Nationwide Permits, but not both.
Receive: Federal Wetland Regulation Reference Manual with Updates, Nationwide Permits Complete 2022 Edition (book), and downloadable lecture notes.
Resources: Printable Course Curriculum
Your Course Includes
Nationwide Permits Complete
This exclusive WTI publication remains the single, organized source for all documents required to move effectively through the nationwide permit process.
Downloadable Resources
Receive lecture slides for note-taking and essential electronic resources for ongoing reference.
Certificate of Completion
All participants in WTI courses receive a certificate of completion recognizing the course topic and minimum number of hours required to complete the course.
Frequently asked Questions
When does the course start and finish?
The course is self-paced. You can begin the online lectures at any time, and you will have access to the content for one year from your start date.
Can I have face-to-face interaction with the Instructor?
No, this is an online self-paced course. However, you are free to contact the instructor via our course discussion board, or if needed, the direct messaging system from the member’s area.
Does this course apply towards my certification program?
Your certificate of completion can be used to document instructional hours received in this topic. You should contact the specific certifying agency or association directly to find out how they will assess or credit this WTI course. Typically, our courses are accepted by all state and national certifying agencies and associations; however, you should confirm that with the specific certification program to which you are applying or renewing.
REGISTERATION
NOTE: This course includes all the content from the Nationwide Permits course, along with in-depth coverage of policy topics. Participants should register for either Federal Wetland / Waters Regulatory Policy or Nationwide Permits, but not both.
What Our Participants Say…
“Your coverage in this policy course was extremely good. I have had significant experience in the policy end of things over the past 40+ years in the field, so I am familiar with the breadth and complexity of the state and federal rules. This course covered all the necessary areas.”
“I use the Nationwide Permits Complete book on a daily basis and find it extremely valuable. Thank you for continuing to offer courses and such materials to the public.”
Course Curriculum
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Discussion: Welcome and Introduce Yourself Here (POLICY – 2026)
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Discussion: I have questions or comments (POLICY – 2026)
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Downloadable Resources – Policy
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Welcome to Federal Wetland / Waters Regulatory Policy Online Lectures (11 minutes)
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Authorities and Definitions – updated May 2025 (50 minutes)
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Evolution of the Program (1 hour, 1 minute)
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Geographical Jurisdiction (52 minutes)
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Geographic Jurisdiction Case Law (1 hour, 5 minutes)
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Regulated Activities (50 minutes)
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Regulated Activities Case Law – updated May 2025 (44 minutes)
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404b1 Guidelines (37 minutes)
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Related Laws and Procedures (55 minutes)
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National Environmental Policy Act (48 minutes)
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Individual Permit Applications (1 hour, 1 minute)
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Individual Permit Case Law (30 minutes)
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Administrative Appeals (55 minutes)
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Legal Review (1 hour, 35 minutes)
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General Permits (48 minutes)
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Nationwide Permits – Part 1 (1 hour, 22 minutes)
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Nationwide Permits – Part 2 (1 hour, 10 minutes)
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Nationwide Permits – Part 3 (1 hour, 13 minutes)
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NWP General Conditions (1 hour, 12 minutes)
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Mitigation Part 1 (45 minutes)
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Mitigation Part 2 (1 hour, 20 minutes)