RISK ASSESSMENT AS AN ENVIRONMENTAL-MANAGEMENT TOOL - CONSIDERATIONS FOR FRESH-WATER WETLANDS

This paper presents a foundation for improving the risk assessment pro cess for freshwater wetlands. Integrating wetland science, i.e., use o f an ecosystem-based approach, is the key concept. Each biotic and abi otic wetland component should be identified and its contribution to ec osystem functions and societal values determined when deciding whether a stressor poses an unreasonable risk to the sustainability of a part icular wetland. Understanding the major external and internal factors that regulate the operational conditions of wetlands is critical to ri sk characterization. Determining the linkages between these factors, a nd how they influence the way stressors affect wetlands, is the basis for an ecosystem approach. Adequate consideration of wetland ecology, hydrology, geomorphology, and soils can greatly reduce the level of un certainty associated with risk assessment and lead to more effective r isk management. In order to formulate effective solutions, wetland pro blems must be considered at watershed, landscape, and ecosystem scales . Application of an ecosystem approach can be greatly facilitated ii w etland scientists and risk assessors work together to develop a common understanding of the principles of both disciplines.