The status of wetlands in southern Ontario

Although it is generally accepted that wetlands have been progressively altered in large sections of the province of Ontario, little is known about the status of wetlands or of the magnitude of wetland loss in the province. An analysis of the processes acting to impair wetland areas reveals that agricultural land drainage exerts the most widespread and significant impact on wetlands. At the same time, the practice of agricultural land drainage does not lend itself to adequate control over the loss of wetlands. Drainage is most intense in those areas where wetlands are most rare and is continuing to expand into fringe areas where wetlands may be placed in jeopardy. A geographical analysis of agricultural land drainage reveals areas of potential concern.