What are tidal wetlands?
Tidal wetlands are “those areas which border on or lie beneath tidal waters, such as, but not limited to banks, bogs, salt marshes, swamps, meadows, flats, or other low lands subject to tidal action, including those areas now or formerly connected to tidal waters, and whose surface is at or below an elevation of one foot above local extreme high water; and upon which may grow or be capable of growing some, but not necessarily all, of [a list of specific plant species – see Connecticut General Statutes (CGS) section 22a-29(2) ]” [CGS section 22a-29, as referenced by CGS section 22a-93(7)(E)]. In general, tidal wetlands form in “low energy” environments protected from direct wave action. Low marsh areas are flooded by tidal waters twice a day, while high marsh areas are flooded a few times a month. All tidal wetlands support a diverse ecosystem of vegetation and wildlife. Detailed information about the geology, history, ecology and restoration of tidal wetlands can be found in the public
