RISK ASSESSMENT IN THE REGULATORY PROCESS FOR WETLANDS

This paper presents an ecosystem-based approach to risk assessment in freshwater wetlands. The key concept in this approach is that the prim ary biotic and abiotic components that determine the structural and fu nctional characteristics of wetlands are inseparable. Each component s hould be identified and its contribution to ecosystem functions or hum an values determined when deciding whether a stressor poses an unreaso nable risk to the sustainability of a particular wetland. Understandin g the major external and internal factors that regulate the operationa l conditions of wetlands is critical to risk characterization. Determi ning the linkages between these factors, and how they influence the wa y stressors affect wetlands, is the basis for an ecosystem approach. A dequate consideration of wetland ecology, hydrology, geomorphology, an d soils can greatly reduce the level of uncertainty associated with ri sk assessment and lead to more effective risk management. In order to formulate effective solutions, wetland problems must be considered at watershed, landscape, and ecosystem scales. (C) 1996 Academic Press, I nc.