The Vermont Wetlands Program is updating the Vermont Significant Wetland Inventory (VSWI) maps to incorporate the latest federal wetland data. This session will provide an overview of the updated maps, explain how they are developed and used, and offer an opportunity to ask questions directly to state staff.

We encourage both in-person and virtual participation. Community input and local knowledge are an important part of this process, and your participation helps ensure a more complete and informed conversation.

Currently, the 2023 Vermont Wetland Rules remain in effect, and the Wetlands Program continues to provide guidance and assistance under the existing rules. A proposed rule amendment including provisions related to housing in designated areas, is in progress and under state review. More information about the rulemaking process and timeline is available on the Wetlands Program’s website.

The proposed new wetland maps are available online for viewing and comment.

Map Updates: The Wetlands Program is updating the Vermont Significant Wetlands Inventory (VSWI) with the newly completed National Wetlands Inventory (NWI) data.  The current update is for River Basin 1 – Battenkill, Walloomsac, Hoosic; Basin 2 & 4 – Southern Lake Champlain, Basin 7 – Lamoille, Basin 17 – Lake Memphremagog, and the Rock River Watershed (see the map below).  This update also includes VSWI edits associated with wetland boundary information collected at over 400 permitted project sites across 125 towns. Wetlands identified in the NWI maps that meet one or more categorical Class II wetlands criteria under VWR §4.6 using areal interpretation, site visits, and/or other spatial data, are proposed for addition to the VSWI. 
What are the Maps? The Vermont Significant Wetlands Inventory (VSWI) show approximate location and configuration of significant wetlands.  Activities within 50ft of Class II significant wetlands are regulated by the Vermont Wetland Rules.  The map is helpful in showing where many Class II wetlands are, but not all. The map, along with the wetland screening tool, is a good first step for project scoping.  The actual boundaries of wetlands need to be delineated by a professional wetland scientist.  

This session will focus on updates to the state’s mapped wetlands layer (VSWI), which is used as part of the regulatory process for determining where development and certain land uses may occur. As maps are updated, some properties may be newly identified as wetlands or fall within regulated buffer areas. This meeting is intended to help community members understand what is changing, how the maps are used, and what options may be available to landowners.

This meeting is part of a broader statewide notification effort that includes outreach through town clerks, the Environmental Notice Bulletin, and partner organizations such as conservation commissions and professional associations. The Bennington County Conservation District, Vermont Agency of Natural Resources, and Vermont Association of Conservation Districts are working together to host this session as a neutral, informational forum for the public.

Register Here:

Can't make it to the event?

Learn More About the Update: You can learn more or comment in writing on this map edit through the Environmental Notice Bulletin or interactive map through July 2, 2026.  You may also learn more or comment at one of the scheduled public meetings:
 
June 16, 2026, 6:30 pm:

• In-person: The Arlington Common, 3938 VT-7A, Arlington, VT
• Virtual access: Register in advance for this meeting.

June 17, 2026, 3:00 pm:

• In-person: 43 Portland Street, Morrisville, VT 05661, Tegu Building (Morristown Town Office Building) in the Community Meeting Room

• Virtual access: Register in advance for this meeting

The presentation will include similar information as previous meetings held earlier this year.  Those meetings are recorded and viewable now on our YouTube Channel.