Frequently Asked Questions
Have a question about Ohio's wetlands or the Ohio Wetlands Association? We've answered some of the most common questions below.
About OWA
What is the Ohio Wetlands Association?
The Ohio Wetlands Association (OWA0 is a statewide, volunteer-led nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting, restoring, and promoting the enjoyment of Ohio's wetlands through education, science-based programs, and advocacy.
What does OWA do?
OWA supports wetland conservation through educational programs, public outreach, advocacy, and events such as Vernal Poolooza. We work to increase awareness of the importance of wetlands and encourage their protection and restoration throughout Ohio.
How can I get involved?
There are many ways to participate! You can become a member, volunteer for a committee or event, attend educational programs, or support our work through donations and sponsorships. Visit our Get Involved page to learn more.
How is OWA funded?
OWA is a nonprofit organization supported primarily through membership dues, donations, and sponsorships. These contributions help fund our educational programs, events, outreach, and advocacy efforts to protect Ohio's wetlands.
Does OWA offer grants or funding for wetland projects?
OWA is not a general grant-making organization. However, we have developed educational materials and resources with support from Ohio EPA grants. These materials are available here.
About Wetlands
What is a wetland?
Wetlands are areas where water is present at or near the ground surface for all or part of the year, creating conditions that support plants adapted to wetland soils. Ohio's wetlands include marshes, swamps, bogs, fens, wet prairies, and vernal pools.
Why are wetlands important?
Wetlands provide important habitat for wildlife, improve water quality, store floodwaters, and support biodiversity. They also offer opportunities for recreation, education, and enjoying nature.
How much wetland has Ohio lost?
Ohio has lost approximately 90% of its original wetlands, largely due to drainage an land conversion for agriculture and development. Protecting the wetlands that remain and restoring wetlands where possible are important conservation priorities.
Where can I visit wetlands in Ohio?
Ohio has many wonderful places to explore wetlands. Some of Ohio's best known wetlands include Magee Marsh Wildlife Area, Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge, and Cedar Bog Nature Preserve. State parks, wildlife areas, and local nature preserves also offer opportunities to explore wetlands and their wildlife.
How can I help protect wetlands?
You can help by supporting local conservation efforts, volunteering, learning about wetlands in your community, practicing responsible land stewardship, and supporting organizations working to protect these important ecosystems.
Wetland Protection
I think someone is filling or destroying a wetland. Who should I contact?
If you notice a wetland being filled, drained, or disturbed and are concerned that the activity may be unauthorized, contact the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). You can also contact the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which oversees federal wetland permitting. When reporting a concern, provide the location, a description of the activity, and photographs if available and safely obtained.
Some wetland impacts are authorized through permits. The appropriate regulatory agencies can determine whether further investigation is needed.
Can OWA investigate or stop wetland filling?
OWA advocates for wetland protection but is not a regulatory or enforcement agency. We cannot issue permits, determine whether an activity is legal, or require someone to stop work. Concerns about potentially unauthorized wetland impacts should be directed to Ohio EPA of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
How can I tell if an area is a wetland?
Many wetlands do not contain standing water. Some are wet only seasonally, and others may appear relatively dry for parts of the year. Wetland identification generally considers vegetation, soils, and hydrology. A qualified wetland professional can evaluate a property and determine whether wetlands are present.
Do I need a permit to fill or alter a wetland on my property?
You may may likely need a permit or other authorization before placing fill material in a wetland or undertaking certain activities in it. Contact Ohio EPA or the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers before beginning activities that may affect a wetland.
Have federal wetland protections changed recently?
Yes. Federal wetland protections have changed following the U.S> Supreme Court's 2023 Sackett v EPA decision, and federal rules continue to evolve. Ohio also has state wetland regulations that may apply when federal jurisdiction does not apply.
For current regulatory information, visit:
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency - Waters of the U.S.
- Ohio Environmental Protection Agency - Division of Surface Water
This information is provided for general educational purposes. Regulatory requirements can change and vary depending on the circumstances of a particular property of project. Contact appropriate regulatory agencies for guidance.