Precision in the field is only half the battle when navigating the complexities of the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act (WPA). This technical webinar, presented by Christopher Lucas of Lucas Environmental, LLC (LE), provides a deep dive into the critical intersection of wetland science and land surveying. Rather than a broad overview, we will focus on the practical application of the WPA, specifically distinguishing between field-delineated inland resources and the elevation-based coastal resource areas that require seamless coordination between the surveyor and the wetland consultant.
Participants will gain actionable insights into the nuances of the Riverfront Area and the methodology for accurately depicting it on a Survey Plan. The speaker will further dissect the technical requirements for Coastal Bank analysis, exploring the application of transects and slope calculations in strict accordance with MassDEP Coastal Bank Policy. Beyond the state-level mandates, the session will address the overlapping nature of coastal resource areas and the impact of varying local Bylaws and Ordinances. By addressing common misconceptions and technical pitfalls, this “crash course” equips surveyors with the knowledge to identify resource areas accurately, reduce plan revisions, and deliver more robust, compliant filings for their clients.
Christopher M. Lucas, PWS, CWS, RPSS
Environmental Consultant, Professional Wetland & Soil Scientist, Lucas Environmental, LLC
Christopher Lucas has an extensive background in ecology and wildlife biology, wetlands and soil science, as well as marine biology, ornithology and GIS. His responsibilities include preparation and coordination of the environmental science aspects for residential and commercial development, roadways and utility projects, telecommunications facilities, and municipal services/peer review.
Chris’s expertise lies in wetland delineations, wildlife habitat evaluations and analysis, and document preparation and coordination for environmental permitting. He has prepared documentation for federal and state permits under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, MA Department of Environmental Protection, MA Department of Conservation and Recreation, MA Environmental Policy Act (MEPA), Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program, and MA Wetlands Protection Regulations. Additionally, Chris has conducted extensive local environmental permitting throughout New England.
Registration Information
Registration Fees: $55/person, $110/up to three people, $165/up to five people for MALSCE members* and $85/person, $170/up to three people, $255/up to five people for non-members.
For group registrations the applicable registration fee will be determined by the membership status of the majority of registrants. Please note that a recording of this webinar will be made available for viewing for a 60-day period. By registering to participate in this webinar you are granting MALSCE permission to record any questions you ask.
* Members of CALS, MSLS, NHLSA, NYSAPLS, RISPLS, and VSLS can attend for the MALSCE member rate.
Registration Deadline: Tuesday, March 31, 2026. Click register to sign up to participate in this webinar and pay online or request an invoice. To register online at the MALSCE member rate, login or enter the email associated with your MALSCE membership. Group registrations can also be made online or via email, fax, or mail. To register a group via email, fax, or mail, download the MALSCE Webinar Group Registration Form and follow the submission instructions. Registrations are processed on a first-come, first-served basis. No refunds will be given after the March 31 registration deadline.
*Members of CALS, MSLS, NHLSA, RISPLS, NYSAPLS, and VSLS may register at the member rate.