FDEP_qualified_PMTs_Professional_Mangrove_Trimmer_Info_1996_Act
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) guides individuals looking to become a Professional Mangrove Trimmer (PMT) under the 1996 Mangrove Trimming and Preservation Act. This Act dictates regulations for mangrove trimming on both public and private lands, with certain trimming activities exempt from permitting requirements if supervised by a qualified PMT.
Applicants seeking FDEP qualification must meet specific criteria, including completing a minimum of 10 authorized mangrove-trimming projects and demonstrating the ability to correctly identify mangrove species in the state. Projects require documentation like project names, permit numbers, and supervising PMT details. Experiences exempted by Florida Statutes will not count towards PMT recognition.
Further qualifications necessitate proving compliance with the Mangrove Trimming and Preservation Acts, along with the ability to identify mangrove species. Applications not under local governance should be sent to the Submerged Lands and Environmental Resource Coordination Program, with a 60-day review period for PMT certification. Delegated local governments handle mangrove trimming independently, with automatic PMT status granted to certified arborists, wetland scientists, environmental professionals, ecologists, and licensed landscape architects in Florida.
Certified professionals listed above require no additional steps to become PMTs and can undertake all necessary PMT services as per the Act. To be included in the FDEPs list of professional mangrove trimmers, certified individuals can submit a request form by email to SLERC@floridadep.gov. Those aiming to work within delegated local governments should contact the respective entities regarding PMT certification. Stay tuned for more updates on professional mangrove trimming at the FDEP website.
