Information on Wetland Compliance Programs for Farmers and Forest Land Owners

Dear Farmer or Landowner:

Wetlands are important natural areas that are regulated by several government agencies in Vermont. Often areas that qualify as wetland are not obvious. It is important for farmers and other landowners to know where wetlands are on their land before the bulldozers or backhoes begin work.

An area may qualify as wetland if it has water on or near the surface for an extended time during the growing season. There are no maps available that show all the wetlands in Vermont. Trained professionals must conduct on-site reviews in order to determine the presence and extent of any wetlands.

In Vermont three government agencies administer wetland protection programs. The State of Vermont, Wetland Office, regulates activities in all “Class I and II” wetlands. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers regulates activities in “all waters of the U.S.”, including wetlands. Also, the USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) administers a wetland conservation program called Swampbuster. Under Swampbuster farmers who convert wetlands become ineligible for most USDA program benefits, including, farm loans, crop payments, and costshare on conservation practices.

Some normal farming and logging activities are exempt from the wetland programs. However, it is important to get wetlands identified before they are impacted, particularly if they are cleared or drained. It is always easier (and less expensive) to deal with projects in wetlands when they are still in the planning process. The NRCS will try to provide farmers with wetland determinations when requested in writing.

If you are farmer please contact your local USDA NRCS or Farm Services Agency (FSA) office prior to clearing or draining any of your land. Farmers and other landowners may also contact the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (802-872-2893) or the Vermont Wetland Office for further information (802-241-3770).

Sincerely,

Francis M. Keeler

State Conservationist, NRCS

The Natural Resources Conservation Service, formerly the Soil Conservation Service, works hand-in-hand with the American people to conserve natural resources on private lands.

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER