ABSTRACT

Local wetlands provide a variety of important environmental services, and local governments should identify important wet-lands in determining the location, type, and density of future development through the comprehensive planning process. State governments, through their departments of natural resources or the environment, have been active in identifying and delineating wetlands, in reviewing and issuing wetlands permits, and in requiring wetlands mitigation before issuing a permit. Local governments can identify wetlands as part of the natural resources inventory section of the comprehensive plan. Local planning officials should use the capital improvements program (CIP) to direct growth and development away from large wetlands or groupings of smaller wetlands. The CIP can also include funding programs for the public purchase of wetlands or the acquisition of conservation easements. Partnering with land trusts and sports groups can be pursued. If appropriate, the CIP could include plans for constructed wetlands to service the community, its schools, or other public uses.