So You Think You Don’t Own Any Wetlands?

Wetlands were once regarded as a nuisance, and were often drained for cropland or dredged for more useable waterways. We have since come to appreciate them as an important tool in flood prevention and water purification, and state and federal agencies have stepped up their efforts to protect them. The challenge, unfortunately, is to draw a hard line between wetlands and non-wetlands when the reality resembles shades of grey. And the stakes in this game can be quite high, with a variety of municipal, state and federal restrictions on the development of wetlands or adjacent properties, and stiff civil and criminal penalties for violations.

While Wisconsin county planning and resource offices maintain maps showing generally where wetlands might be located, a special wetlands survey will offer a more definite answer. An environmental lawyer can help you obtain such a survey, interpret the results, and determine how it will affect your development plans. I can also advocate for you with the various officials to help avoid unnecessary or inapplicable restrictions.

Even if your property appears to be free of wetlands, it’s worth the trouble to make sure. I’m happy to help you safeguard against surprises and guide your project to a smooth finish.