For regulatory purposes, wetlands are defined by the presence or absence of specific types of vegetation, soils and hydrologic conditions. However, it is not the intent nor within the scope of this Manual, to define wetlands for regulatory purposes or to use any particular regulatory definition. Wetlands, for the purpose of this Manual, are listed by type in Appendix 5.
In addition, areas of pine flatwoods may contain certain wetland types listed in this Manual, such as cypress ponds. However, for the purpose of this Manual, pine flatwoods are not considered wetlands. Conversely, the presence of pine species within swamps, sloughs or floodplains does not necessarily make these areas “pine sites”.
Because of the generally wet soil conditions associated with forested wetlands, some of these areas can be very sensitive to forestry activities, particularly during flooding or periods of soil saturation. For silviculture operations in general, wetlands are probably most susceptible to changes in hydrology or hydroperiod, which can result from improper forest road construction, logging operations, and certain types of site preparation activities.
In general, the BMPs that apply to any other land type also apply to wetlands. For example, a stream within a wetland area would receive a SMZ, and a road or stream crossing constructed within a wetland would be required to apply the appropriate BMPs. However, because of the sensitivity of some types of wetlands to certain forestry related activities, the following special BMPs also apply.
In addition, such agencies should maintain environmental/ecological inventories of public lands and actively implement and study alternatives that exceed the BMPs in this manual. Results should be well documented to help facilitate future BMP revisions. Copies of enhanced management plans or any such studies should be forwarded to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Division of Forestry.
Drainage and Conversion
- Ditching in association with road construction and maintenance, fireline plowing or other activities in wetlands, must not significantly change the hydrologic condition of wetlands or the overall drainage pattern of the site.
- Do not significantly alter the natural drainage or flow patterns on forest lands immediately adjacent to wetlands, particularly isolated wetlands, such as cypress ponds or gum ponds. Logging slash must not be pushed into or piled around ponds or other isolated wetlands.
- Do not conduct intensive mechanical site preparation such as bedding, raking and windrowing in wetlands.
- Avoid fireline plowing in wetlands (see Fireline Construction).
Roads
- When constructing roads in wetlands, refer to the Roads section of the manual in addition to the following BMPs.
- Avoid fill road construction, especially in floodplains or other wetlands.
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