Wetland Protection

Most people are familiar with the cattail or lily pad wetland found in areas with standing water, but wetlands can also be grassy meadows, shrubby fields, or mature forests. Many wetland areas have only a high groundwater table, and standing water may not be visible.

Over 25% of Meridian Township is covered in wetlands (5,778 acres out of 20,160), making wetland stewardship a crucial responsibility and opportunity in every neighborhood.

Benefits of Wetlands

• Wetlands act as sponges, temporarily storing flood waters and releasing them slowly, thus reducing flood damage
• Wetlands act as 'nature's kidneys' by removing pollutants, such as nutrients and sediments, from water flowing through them
• Wetlands are also considered 'nature's nurseries' by providing critical habitat for fish, wildlife, and waterfowl
• Wetlands protect from storms and ice by absorbing wave energy and buffering shorelines against erosion

Important Wetland Information for Residents, Landscapers, and Contractors

• Wetlands, wetland buffers, and natural vegetation strips are protected by law. For those working in Meridian Township, please abide by the Wetland Ordinance and Water Feature Ordinance
• When working within 20 feet of a wetland, wetland buffer, or natural area, remember:
  • Do not add any chemicals, including pesticides and herbicides
  • Do not mow
  • Do not dump yard waste
  • Do not add any fill material such as fill dirt, stone, or mulch
  • Do not remove stumps/roots

How to Enhance Your Wetland Buffer

• Plant native vegetation on your property and remove invasive species
• Protect the required 20-foot natural vegetation buffer around wetlands
• Contact the Planning Department at 517.853.4560 if you are planning construction or landscaping within 40 feet of the wetland
• Contact the Stewardship Coordinator at 517.853.4614 for information on native plant lists and invasive species information

Wetland Protection Documents

• Meridian Township Wetland Education Brochure
• Meridian Township Wetland Letter to Residents - October 2021