A New Firm--A New Direction


Welcome to Watershed Legal Counsel's blog. We open by sharing today's press release announcing the firm's launch. Watch this space for timely updates on natural resource and environmental laws, especially as they affect Marylanders, and for tips on navigating environmental and natural resource issues that arise in your own endeavors.

Former DNR Legal Chief Launches Watershed Legal Counsel

Environmental & Natural Resources Firm to Serve Clients

Throughout Maryland


Annapolis, MD – Watershed Legal Counsel, a law practice based in Annapolis, Maryland, is excited to mark its official launch today. Led by seasoned environmental and natural resources attorney Jennifer Wazenski, the firm is poised to make a significant impact in advancing the interests of individuals, businesses, and government entities across the State of Maryland.

Watershed Legal Counsel is available for representation in environmental and natural resources matters ranging from the simple to the complex. The firm will assist clients with permitting and compliance needs; analysis of environmental risks associated with projects and transactions; regulatory policy development and advocacy; and resolution of environmental and natural resource conflicts through litigation or alternative dispute resolution.

Jennifer Wazenski, who led the Office of the Attorney General at the Maryland Department of Natural Resources from 2010 through 2021, is the driving force behind Watershed Legal Counsel. Through her distinguished career in private practice and government service, Ms. Wazenski has successfully navigated and litigated cases involving numerous federal and State regulatory programs, including water pollution control, hazardous and solid waste, oil pollution control, air and radiation management, forest conservation, coastal zone management, fisheries management, and environmental justice. Prior to serving as Principal Counsel to DNR, Ms. Wazenski was Deputy Counsel to the Maryland Department of the Environment from 2008 to 2010. In both roles, she successfully led teams of attorneys, delivering strategic legal services to cabinet-level State agencies. She began her legal career in the Washington D.C. office of an international law firm with a large environmental practice.

A Maryland native, Ms. Wazenski was drawn to a career in environmental and natural resources law from her experience as a biology student at St. Mary's College of Maryland.  An internship in a university fisheries lab exposed her to management issues in Chesapeake Bay during the rockfish moratorium of the late 1980s. In one dispute between local charter boat captains and the United States Navy, the lab was asked to perform acoustic monitoring ahead of anti-submarine blast testing above the shipping channel.  If her lab detected too many fish in the area, Maryland DNR was on site to call off the planned detonations. The communications around making the call were challenging because the stakeholders essentially spoke different languages. In that moment, Ms. Wazenski saw a role for someone who could essentially translate between scientists, regulators, and regulated parties to craft practical solutions that would be understood by everyone. The role was that of an environmental lawyer. "I'd found my calling," recalls Ms. Wazenski.

The same problem-solving spirit that led Ms. Wazenski into law and to public service has inspired the launch of Watershed Legal Counsel. "Navigating environmental and natural resources issues can be daunting, even for smart government officials and business executives. Watershed Legal Counsel is dedicated to helping clients understand the law and crafting solutions tailored to their unique circumstances and broader goals," Ms. Wazenski noted. 

Located in the heart of Annapolis, Watershed Legal Counsel is strategically positioned to serve the diverse legal needs of people and entities throughout Maryland. For more information about Watershed Legal Counsel and the range of services it provides, please visit the official website at watershedlc.com.

###

Location: Annapolis, MD, USA

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

The Legal Audit: An Investment in the Future of Your Mission-Driven Environmental Enterprise

Image
Many small and growing businesses—even those working in heavily regulated areas like environmental restoration, conservation, and renewable energy—forgo the assistance of qualified legal counsel. At best, they might engage a lawyer for a specific task, contract review, or dispute. Non-profits often rely on volunteer lawyers and board members with legal backgrounds for these purposes. If you’re serious about ensuring legal compliance, managing risk, and landing opportunities in an evolving regulatory landscape, there’s a better way. And it starts with a legal audit. What is a Legal Audit? A legal audit, also known as a compliance audit or legal health check, is a systematic examination of an organization's legal standing, governance structures, and compliance with relevant laws and regulations. This comprehensive review is conducted by qualified legal professionals to identify any potential legal risks, compliance gaps, or areas for improvement within the organization's operatio...
Read more

Walking and Working in Nature: Legal and Practical Tips for Successful Outdoor Events

Image
As the (relative) warmth of spring embraces Maryland, local businesses, land trusts, community associations, and environmental nonprofits gear up for a season of outdoor activities. From stream and woodland walks to cleanups and stewardship visits, these events not only foster a sense of community but also contribute to the preservation and appreciation of our natural landscapes. Before embarking on such adventures, it's crucial to consider several factors to ensure a safe, lawful, and successful event. Adobe Stock Photo Legal and Physical Access Before planning any outdoor event, ensure legal access to the land where the activities will take place. Obtain necessary permits or permissions from relevant authorities or landowners, and be sure to carry them on your person while visiting the property. Verify if there are any restrictions or regulations regarding the activities you plan to conduct. Never enter posted property without express authorization of the owner and acknowledged, ...
Read more

Decoding Government Instrumentalities in Maryland: Essential Partners in Environmental and Conservation Initiatives

Image
  In the world of public infrastructure, conservation, and restoration, governmental instrumentalities are like the mythical centaur. They are part government and part corporate entity, combining the strengths--and some challenges--of both. Just as the centaur straddles the line between human and horse, these entities blend the independence of a private business with the authority of a government body.  Some instrumentalities in Maryland are created directly by State law, like the Chesapeake Bay Trust, the Maryland Environmental Service and the Maryland Agricultural and Resource-Based Industry Development Corporation (MARBIDCO). Others, such as local water and sewer authorities and county resilience authorities, are authorized by State law but brought to life by local legislation. The unique hybrid nature of instrumentalities brings its own set of legal complexities, requiring careful navigation. Whether you’re part of one of these organizations or looking to partner with one,...
Read more