Flood-disturbed stream systems, in particular, are complex in terms of understanding the geomorphic stability and likely trajectory of a project site. Conditions on the ground can substantially change between the onset of the design process and the first day of construction. Rendering plans that attempt to convey certainty (100% designs) can become obsolete as changing field conditions require flexibility in construction. The degree of effort that is put into the design process needs to reflect the potential uncertainty and the natural processes that are already in play as well as the variability and mobility of the materials that are used in this type of work (e.g., rocks, plants, large wood vs. concrete and steel). Additionally, many of the natural features and small details that make a stream restoration project successful are difficult to communicate on paper, as engineering drawings don’t always well mimic the complexity found in the natural environment.

Satisfying permitting processes require significant time, resources, and funding. Permitting requirements can also adversely affect project outcomes, quality, and success. Until changes to regulatory requirements for post-disaster recovery can be achieved, the local sponsor must anticipate the potential impacts of floodplain regulations and associated construction permitting requirements. Developing new permit processes post-disaster is likely to create significant delays unless the new process truncates or simplifies existing requirements. It’s best to get out ahead of these issues and make permitting a tool to check projects but not completely derail them.