Defending Virginia’s Wetlands: Why we need them and what you can do to protect them

"Wetlands are among the most productive ecosystems in the world, comparable to rain forests and coral reefs." -EPA
It's hard to overstate the value of wetlands to people, our economy, and our environment. Virginia's wetlands, which have been under state protection since 1972, are at risk. During this webinar, we share the value of wetlands-from protecting people and property and slowing shoreline erosion to providing groundwater recharge and habitat for birds, mammals, fish, and shellfish. We also discuss the protections Virginia's wetlands currently receive in state law, the agencies responsible for permitting and enforcement, and why these protections are at risk in light of the recent Sackett vs. EPA Supreme Court decision. You learn what's at stake and how you can advocate to prevent further wetland loss in the state. There is a Q&A following the presentations.
Our expert speakers include:
* Jay Ford, Virginia Grassroots and Policy Advisor, Chesapeake Bay Foundation
* Pamela Mason, Senior Research Scientist, Virginia Institute of Marine Science (00:02:37)
* Jonathan Gendzier, Staff Attorney, Southern Environmental Law Center (00:42:27)