The State of Vermont protects wetlands which provide significant functions and values and also protects a buffer zone directly adjacent to significant wetlands. Wetlands in Vermont are classified as Class I, II, or III based on the significance of the functions and values they provide.
This section of the Vermont Wetlands Program website is a clearinghouse of wetland resources from Vermont and beyond. Whether you’re a landowner, student, teacher, natural resources professional, or interested community member, the links below will provide you with the information you need to learn about, conserve, protect, and/or restore our valuable wetland resources.
Wetlands serve a variety of functions and values beneficial to the general public and to the environment. The degree to which a wetland serves these functions depends on the hydrology, soil, vegetation, size, and location of the wetland in the landscape. Although a wetland may not serve all functions, each wetland works in combination with other wetlands as part of a complex integrated system.
The Watershed Management Division participates in “special studies” when the need arises, such as:
The Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation's Watershed Management Division monitors the water quality of lakes, ponds, rivers, streams, and wetlands across Vermont. These monitoring activities are carried out in conjunction with Vermont's Water Quality Monitoring Program Strategy and are outlined in our Field Methods Manual.
