Wetlands Stewardship: Wetlands Conservation Begins at Home

Did you know that most Virginians live in a watershed that has either fresh or saltwater wetlands? And population trends have more and more people living farther from urban centers and nearer our shorelines, where the wetlands are. This is putting increasing pressure on our wetlands for housing, roads and commercial development. Fortunately, though, many Virginians who want to live in a more natural environment also want to protect it. In a poll conducted by The Trust for Public Lands, The Chesapeake Bay Foundation and The Nature Conservancy in 2001, "89% of Virginia voters felt that preserving and protecting the state's open space resources should be an important state priority." (Source: 2002 Virginia Outdoors Plan)

When wetlands are destroyed and degraded by development projects and pollution, their ecosystems are damaged and the food chain we humans depend upon is broken. Many citizens want to take an active role in protecting and conserving wetlands in Virginia. Those who have waterfront property can do so directly by becoming good stewards of their backyard wetland habitats. And everyone can reduce the pollution that runs off our yards and streets into our waterways.


To care for your shoreline:

  • Cultivate your backyard wetlands
  • Learn to recognize your wetlands plants and animals
  • Consider natural methods for controlling shoreline erosion
  • Choose rip rap revetments over bulkheads
  • Think small when planning piers, docks and boathouses to reduce impacts to wetlands and shallow water habitat.
  • Use shoreline development BMP's developed by the Virginia Marine Resources Commission for guidance.


When boating:

  • Keep your wake to a minimum near shorelines
  • Dispose of trash and waste properly


When planning home improvements:

  • Become familiar with laws and regulations affecting wetlands
  • Become familiar with your local Wetlands Board
  • Obtain necessary permits before conducting any wetlands disturbing activity


To reduce pollution:

  • Improve drainage on your property to reduce rainwater runoff into your waterway
  • Landscape your yard to minimize rainwater runoff
  • Maintain your septic system carefully
  • Use indigenous plants in your landscape plan to reduce watering and fertilizing needs
  • Use natural methods of insect and disease control to minimize the use of pesticides
  • Dispose of paint, oil, solvents and other toxic wastes properly


And don't hesitate to encourage your neighbors to protect and conserve wetlands, too!
 
Wetlands Watch Inc.    P.O. Box 9335    Norfolk, Virginia 23505
757.456.1394    email Wetlands Watch
  webWisesiteDesign and Services Webwise Sitedesign and Services
Webwise Sitedesign and Services