Wetlands are those areas that have a combination of hydric (wet) soils, are dominated by
hydrophytic (water-loving or wetland) vegetation and exhibit evidence of frequent or periodic
inundation or soil saturation. Wetlands and their limits are defined in Chapter 62-340, Florida
Administrative Code (F.A.C.) and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACOE) Wetland Delineation
Manual (1987). Wetlands, for the purpose of the assessment are defined as “those areas that are
inundated or saturated by surface water or ground water at a frequency and a duration sufficient
to support, and under normal circumstances do support,
a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for life in
saturated soils” (Chapter 62-340 F.A.C).
Typically, wetlands are considered “protected” areas and
encroachment into or activities (placement of fill,
dredging, land clearing, cutting trees with mechanized
equipment, etc.) in wetlands are not allowed without a
permit. Wetland areas may be under the permitting
authority or jurisdiction of the Florida Department of
Environmental Protection (FDEP), Southwest Florida Water Management District
(SWFWMD) and/or the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE). In addition, the state and
local governments typically enforce setback requirements from wetlands for structures
(homes), wells and septic drain fields. Therefore, the presence of wetlands may severely
limit or restrict the use of property or present an economic and environmental challenge.
Some examples of wetlands:
Wetlands
Wetland soil characteristics are varied due
to differences in formation, hydrology and
organic content.
The FDEP and USACOE have
regulatory lists of vegetations'
"wetland status" that is used in
wetland determinations.
Wetlands provide habitat for countless
species, some of which are state and / or
federally protected.
Flood plains to rivers and lakes are
particularly prone to excessively fluctuating
water levels.
Littoral zones of lakes, rivers
and the gulf are common wetland
areas on waterfront properties.
