A review of wetland policy and practice: Towards a strategy for the development of a wetland policy for Manitoba

Manitoba has one of the highest densities of wetlands in any province in Canada but does not have a wetland policy that protects these valuable ecosystems. Historically wetlands have been drained and converted to other uses with little concern for the ecological impacts this has on the landscape. Despite scientific research quantifying the essential role that wetlands play in maintaining healthy watersheds and the quality and quantity of water on the landscape, wetlands continue to be drained and degraded.;A wetland policy is needed to provide a strong voice for wetlands, raising the awareness of their importance on the landscape and recognizing the value of the ecological goods and services they provide to society. A wetland policy must recognize there will always be conflicts related to protection of natural systems and economic development. It will have to state the importance and value of these ecosystems so that development objectives do not take priority over environmental concerns. The policy should function as a framework for decision making, enabling clear conclusions to be drawn about what actions are required and what end result is expected.;If a wetland policy is to be effectively implemented on the landscape it will have to address the concerns of the various stakeholders impacted by the policy. Stakeholders need to be identified and consulted and the policy must address the issues they identify as important. The policy process should attempt to identify and develop common ground on which all stakeholders can agree and as much as possible create consensus on the high level goals and objectives of the policy.;The purpose of this study was to develop a framework for a wetland policy in Manitoba based on a case study of current wetland conservation practices in southwestern Manitoba and an assessment of wetland policies in other jurisdictions. Interviews and a workshop with experts in wetland conservation and management provided much of the data used to develop the policy framework.