(a) It is the public policy of the State, as set forth in the Freshwater Wetlands Act, to preserve, protect and conserve freshwater wetlands and the benefits derived therefrom, to prevent the despoliation and destruction of freshwater wetlands, and to regulate use and development of such wetlands to secure the natural benefits of wetlands, consistent with the general welfare and beneficial economic, social and agricultural development of the State. It is the purpose of this Part to implement that policy by establishing regulations that:

1. (1) define the procedural requirements to be followed in undertaking different activities in wetlands and in areas adjacent to wetlands;
2. (2) establish standards governing the issuance of permits by the department pursuant to the act; and
3. (3) govern the department's implementation of the act.