By Nicole Plysiuk BIT
We keep hearing about the importance of wetlands and how we are losing wetland habitat but what’s the big deal? Don’t we want to get rid of the standing water? Isn’t it just mosquito breeding grounds?
Wetlands provide a multitude of ecological functions, including filtering water, sequestering carbon, providing wildlife habitat for birds, amphibians, reptiles, and mammals, they act as flood attenuation, and so much more! Ok, yes wetlands may provide habitat to mosquitos but along with the mosquitos there are frogs, toads, salamanders, birds and bats that all EAT the mosquitos. Therefore, allowing wetlands the space to be properly functioning ecosystems on our landscape, we are also protecting downstream properties, providing space for climate change resilience, increasing biodiversity and wildlife habitat while protecting our own access to clear clean water. We are also required by law, under the Water Sustainability Act and the Riparian Areas Protection Act to protect, and conserve wetlands.
As our climate continues to change, the role of wetlands on the landscape has become a topic of increasing importance. We understand that protecting wetlands is important, but…
What makes a wetland a wetland?
To determine if a habitat can be classified as a wetland three factors must be present, water loving plants (hydrophytic vegetation), wetland soils (hydric soils) and wetland hydrology (presence of water). The classification and delineation (mapping) of wetlands should be completed by a qualified environmental professional (QEP).
My local government says I have a wetland or stream on my property, but I have never seen it. Why did this happen and what do I do next?
Our local governments have used habitat mapping that was first generated by air photo interpretation. In many areas of Okanagan and Southern Interior the habitat mapping has been ground checked however, sometimes a mapping error occurs. Or sometimes a water feature is seasonal or has intermittent water present and requires a qualified professional to classify the feature. A QP can evaluate habitat condition on your property and determine if the mapped habitat feature meets the definition of a wetland or stream under provincial, local or federal law. They can then guide your to next steps in your project whether you conserving, farming, building or otherwise.
I have had a wetland classified and mapped on my property, now what? What regulations apply?
All natural wetlands are protected under the Water Sustainability Act so work in or a around these features may require permitting and environmental management. Proposed development (including disruption of soils) that is within 30m of a wetland may trigger the Riparian Areas Protection Regulation (RAPR). The regulation takes present habitat into account and (with an assessment completed by a qualified professional) will determine a setback, or allowable development area and protection measures. The province of BC is currently working on a specific wetland strategy to protect, classify and delineate wetlands. Until this strategy is complete and implemented, we rely on RAPR, Develop with Care, Water Sustainability Act, and the document “Wetland Ways: Interim Guidelines for Wetland Protection and Conservation in British Columbia” to guide allowable developments in and around wetlands.
What else should I consider while planning development near the wetland?
Many species at risk use wetlands during part or all of their life cycle. Understanding what species are potentially in your area can help you to protect vulnerable life stages like nesting birds, turtles or even the emergence of toadlets. Many rare plants are also found in wetlands, these rare plants are important parts of healthy functioning ecosystems that support a huge amount of biodiversity.
Why should I protect the wetland on my property?
In addition to being protected by legislation, wetlands provide valuable habitat for a huge variety of bird, plant, invertebrate, amphibian and even some reptile species. This habitat increases biodiversity and makes us more resilient to climate change effects like flooding. Wetlands store and sequester carbon, filter water and clean our air. Having healthy, functioning wetlands will help us to be more resilient to the changing climate. Protection of wetlands is protection of property and protection of our ecological heritage.
Are there any grants or financial incentives to protect habitat?
The Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation has been providing grants to individuals and organizations since 1981. Check out their website to see if your project may qualify, https://hctf.ca/grants/. If you would like more information about wetlands and citizen science the BC Wildlife Federation is a great resource. The wetland keepers course is a fantastic way to learn and engage with your community.
I need a “QEP” report can Sage to that?
We have multiple QEP’s, Qualified Environmental Professional, who have extensive experience and knowledge at Sage. Our team is built of professionals with individual interests that cover a variety of specialties, including wetlands! We have a combined total of over 40 years of experience in the Okanagan including working with local governments and ministries throughout the valley. Contact us to see how we can help you through your next project.