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Wetlands Frequently Asked Questions
Wetlands Frequently Asked Questions
What is a wetland?
Under Massachusetts General Law the term “ wetlands”, is defined as wet meadows, marshes, swamps, bogs, areas where groundwater, flowing or standing surface water or ice provide a significant part of the supporting substrate for a plant community for at least five months of the year; emergent and submergent plant communities in inland waters; that portion of any bank which touches any inland waters.Why are wetlands important?
Wetlands are important to the environment and society for a variety of reasons. They regulate the flow of water by retaining storm flows for short periods, thus reducing flood peaks; They protect lake shores by providing a buffer for the erosive action of waves and other storm effects; They improve water quality by retaining or transforming excess nutrients, and trapping sediment and heavy metals; and they provide many wildlife critical habitat for breeding and nesting. www.na.fs.fed.us/spfo/pubs/n_resource/wetlands
What is a vernal pool?
Vernal pools are small, shallow depressions that are isolated from other surface waters. They flood in the spring and sometimes in the fall, but they are typically dry in the summer. They often have hydric soils. When dry, vernal pools can often be recognized by a layer of stained leaves covering the dry depression.How can I certify vernal pool?
The Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program has a procedure outlined on their website, along with the required forms. www.state.ma.us/dfwele/dfw/nhesp/nhesp.htmWhat makes vernal pools unique to other wetlands?
Certain wildlife species rely on vernal pools for reproduction; and certain vegetation species can only be found in or around vernal pools. Vernal pools dry up during the summer.Where do I find the Wetland Rules and Regs?
Massachusetts wetland regulations may be found at http://www.mass.gov/dep/water/resources/wetlands.htm#wireThe Town of Amherst Wetlands Protection Bylaw and Regulations may be found at http://www.amherstma.gov/index.aspx?nid=1269