Opinion ID: 1700992
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 3

Heading: fish and wildlife values

Text: Section 89-02-01-16(4)(h), N.D. Adm.Code, says that the State Engineer must consider fish and wildlife values when evaluating wetlands in a drainage project. Although the State Engineer stated in his decision that he had considered how fish and wildlife values will be affected by the project and discussed the evidence presented on the matter, the district court ruled that because there were no findings specifically related to type I and III wetlands, reversal was required. Under the circumstances of this case, we do not believe the State Engineer was required to make separate findings regarding each distinct category of wetlands and the resultant effect of their drainage on fish and wildlife values. The State Engineer found that there are many wetlands in the White Spur assessment area in addition to type IV wetlands. The State Engineer further determined that harm to wildlife and consequently, recreation, will be small. It is therefore apparent that the State Engineer sufficiently considered how the Project would affect fish and wildlife values.