Functions of wetlands include, but are not limited to, fish and wildlife habitat, food chain support, storage of flood waters, erosion control, groundwater recharge, nutrient cycling and storage, and pollutant removal. Worcester County contains extensive wetland areas of varying types performing diverse functions. Nontidal Wetlands of Special State Concern often contain rare or endangered species, and are designated for special protection under the State's nontidal wetlands regulations, including increased buffering requirements. Maryland Nontidal Wetland Guidance Maps identify the general locations of wetlands, including those of Special State Concern, in Maryland, and may be viewed at the Department of Development Review and Permitting. These maps were created for regional-level planning, and are only suitable for general guidance for the individual landowner as they are based upon aerial photograph interpretation.
Many more wetlands exist than are mapped.
Wetland delineation at any specific site requires an on-site study by a qualified consultant. These maps may be viewed at the Department of Development Review and Permitting. Copies of these maps are available for a fee from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, Geological Survey Publications Office . Tidal wetlands within the Chesapeake Bay Critical Area are protected under the more stringent requirements of the State Critical Area Program . The boundaries of the Worcester County Critical Area may be viewed at the Department of Development Review and Permitting .