Wetlands - Erosion Control

Vegetated wetlands along the shores of lakes or rivers can protect against erosion caused by waves along the shorelines during floods and storms. Wetland plants are important because they can absorb much of the energy of the surface waters and bind soil and deposited sediments in their dense root systems.

According to the Vermont Wetland Rules (pdf, 84 KB), wetlands that are important for erosion control are significant wetlands. In determining whether a wetland is significant for the Erosion Control Through Binding and Stabilizing the Soil function, the Secretary or Panel shall, at a minimum, consider the extent to which it:

a. Protects a shoreline, riverbank or streambank from excessive erosion by dissipation of wave and current energy or by binding and stabilizing the soil.
b. Prevents erosion by binding or stabilizing the soil.
c. Has been identified through fluvial geomorphic assessment using methods approved by the Secretary to be important in maintaining the natural condition of the stream or river corridor.

Updated:February 2011