Don't Abandon Wetlands Protections

Published: Jun 20, 2007

Hillsborough commissioners may try to use the state-mandated budget cutbacks as an excuse to eliminate the county's wetlands protections. Some members say the program duplicates the state's effort.

This is an old ruse. The development industry has long tried to get rid of the county's wetlands program, and duplication is the common - and false - accusation.

The county's wetlands ordinance is tougher than the state's rule and was adopted precisely because state regulators were allowing the piecemeal destruction of Hillsborough's natural systems.

Commissioners, meeting as the Environmental Protection Commission, are scheduled to discuss the county's wetlands program Thursday.

The $2.3 million annual cost of the program is a good investment for taxpayers, as the wetlands prevent flooding and erosion, filter and store water and sustain wildlife.

Unlike the state, Hillsborough protects wetlands smaller than one-half acre, which can have great ecological value. The rule is reasonable, and allows wetlands to be destroyed if their preservation prevents the reasonable use of a property.

But when that occurs, local regulators are far better able to monitor projects to ensure the proper steps are taken to create marshlands elsewhere.

These man-made wetlands can be effective, but only if carefully constructed. The state's record for overseeing restoration efforts is spotty.

Make no mistake. If the commissioners abandon the county's protections, they won't be gaining efficiency. They'll be sacrificing wetlands. And it will be clear to the public what they are up to.