Inland Wetland Plants of Connecticut CT Author:The Connecticut Arboretum, Connecticut College A letter from Douglas M. Costle, Commisioner, State of CT Dept. of Environmental Protection: — Fresh water or inland wetlands play a vital role in the ecology of our state. It is a role, however, which has not been readily or universally appreciated. Despite the multiple benefits provided by swamps, bogs and marshes, encroachment pressure on thes... more »e areas continues to be strong and unrelenting.
Fortunately, the Connecticut General Assembly has enacted Public Act 155 in 1972 and Public Act 571 in 1973 which call for the regulation of inland wetlands to prevent unwise or heedless development of these invaluable areas and possible serious damage or destruction. This landmark legislation authorizes local governments to regulate wetlands and watercourses within their bounds. The law also provides that in the event that amy municipality does not exercise this responsibility, the State of Connecticut can step in to assure the integrity of the wetlands. since the greatest value of the wetlands is to the community and the greatest impact of uncontrolled development will be felt at the community level, we strongly urge that each town take the necessary steps to provide for local regulation.
Through this most absorbing and informative publication, Dr. William A. Niering and Dr. Richard A. Goodwin have made a signal contribution to the cause of wetlands preservation through increased public knowledge and appreciation of these precious resources. We are indebted to these dedicated conservationists for the fine work which they have done in preparing this valuable booklet.« less