The term wetland refers to those areas of the state that are inundated by surface or ground water with a frequency sufficient to support plants and animals that depend on saturated or seasonally saturated soil conditions for growth and reproduction. These areas are commonly known as ponds, bogs, fens, marshes, wet meadows, shrub swamps, and forested wetlands. In Vermont, over 230,000 acres, or 4% of the land area in the state, have been identified as wetlands on the Vermont Significant Wetlands Inventory (VSWI) Map. Studies have shown that up to 39% of Vermont wetlands may not be mapped. In addition, more than 35% of the original wetlands in Vermont have been lost. In recent years, residential, commercial, and industrial development have been the primary causes of wetland loss.

While conservation and protection of wetlands are critical for preventing continued loss of our remaining intact wetlands, wetland restoration is essential for rehabilitating those that have already been degraded or lost. Wetland restoration goals include assessing areas of prior converted wetland and hydric soils for restoration projects.  As sites and opportunities are identified, implementing those restoration projects is an important step to help reverse past damage. Implementing wetland restoration and conservation projects also need to be prioritized where water pollution reduction and flood protection projects are identified. Recommendations for wetland protection and restoration can be found in the Stream Geomorphic Assessments and River Corridor Plans that have been developed for most of the rivers and streams in Vermont.

 VT ANR Wetlands Restoration Webpage