Why is a wetland worth protecting?
In 1972, recognizing the benefits wetlands bring to society and the natural world, the Connecticut General Statutes were revised to include the Inland Wetlands Act specifically targeting the protection of wetlands and watercourses. Wetlands serve human needs by detaining storm water, reducing the potential threat of flood damage, and by cleansing surface water of sediments and pollutants before it enters the ground water that supplies our wells. Wetlands help maintain base flows for watercourses, provide a water supply for wildlife and furnish breeding and nesting sites for various species, many of which will breed or nest only in wetlands. Wilton responded to the new legislation by establishing a separate commission focusing on wetland issues alone. Most of our Inland Wetlands Commission members have participated in the Department of Environmental Protection training sessions to learn about wetland functions and impacts of disturbance. And they have access to technical staff for addit
