A question on Wetlands?

Question

wetlands often are oftened drained or filled in to construct roads or buildings. As a member of an enviromental group, how would yr proposal to build a farm in a local wetland area affect other parts of the water sysytem. How would u present your findings???

Answer 1

A farm on wetlands would be less invasive than a road or building, because of soil permeability. Hard surfaces (roofs, roads, parking) are impermeable, and also collect contaminants (engine oil, salt). During rainfall, these surfaces drain into the water system, bringing the contaminants and draining very quickly ("peak flow") which can overwhelm a natural system and cause flooding. Alternately, they drain into a sewer, which removes a substantial amount of water that would otherwise go into the water system.
A farm would not increase impermeable surfaces, which is good. However, farmland does drain faster than trees or other growth, so it will increase peak flow during a rainfall. Also, fertilizers, pesticides, and soil from plowing will wash into the system: all bad.
Presentation: do "peak flow" calculation comparisons, propose short-term storm water detention if the peak flow is drastically increased, propose to go organic and minimalist with fertilizers and pesticides, and propose specific planted areas at the edge of your watershed to pre-filter the water before it hits the natural water system.

Answer 2

I would get EPA in on it. Army Corps of Engineers make a good argument also. Look up Florida Wetlands, we haven't done good with them, but some are now protected. (till someone pays a senator/congressman off)