Thanks to its low, flat terrain and plentiful rainfall, Florida has about 11 million acres of wetlands, more than any of the other 47 contiguous States. However, Florida has already lost half of its wetlands since the 1970s due to agricultural and urban development. With around 100,000 new single-family homes built in the state each year, pressure on Florida’s marshlands continues to grow.
The truth is that Florida’s marshlands are more than just scenic backdrops to enjoy from your porch while sipping a Mojito. They’re working ecosystems that filter water, provide a habitat for wildlife, and protect our homes from storms. As such, owning property near a salt marsh or any waterfront comes with responsibilities.
| KEY TAKEAWAYS Protecting marshlands is good for the environment and an investment in your home’s long-term value. Here’s how you can play your part: – Maintain a 25-foot buffer – Use native plants to reduce water and chemical use – Manage runoff with rain gardens and permeable surfaces – Conserve water with smart irrigation – Report unauthorized wetland destruction |
Why marshland conservancy matters
Marshland ecosystems serve as nature’s flood barriers, absorbing storm surges and reducing coastal erosion. Salt marshes, in particular, play an essential role in water quality improvement, filtering pollutants and excess nutrients from runoff. Their plant roots and sediments help trap contaminants, preventing them from entering nearby waterways and harming marine life.
Beyond their ecological importance, salt marshes are excellent carbon sinks, absorbing and storing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, which helps mitigate climate change and improve air quality.
Protecting marshlands makes financial sense too. Healthy marshes support activities like fishing, tourism, and recreation, boosting local economies and providing jobs.
Homes near well-maintained wetlands are better shielded from storm damage, which can lead to lower insurance premiums. Marshes reduce flooding and erosion risks, offering cost-effective protection for property owners.
Ignoring wetland conservation can also come with serious consequences. Florida’s strict wetland permitting laws regulate any filling, dredging, or vegetation removal. Unauthorized disturbances can lead to hefty fines and mandatory restoration, making compliance not just an environmental responsibility, but a legal necessity.
Aquatic preserves near Jacksonville
The Nassau River-St. Johns River Marshes and Fort Clinch Aquatic Preserves offer protected natural landscapes along the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway.
- Nassau River-St. Johns River Marshes Aquatic Preserve: Established in 1969, this 69,000-acre preserve spans Nassau and Duval counties, protecting the salt-marsh estuary and its interconnecting tidal creeks, rivers, and channels. It is vital for the preservation of the Nassau Sound area’s unique wetland ecosystems.
- Fort Clinch State Park Aquatic Preserve: Designated in 1970, this 7,600-acre preserve surrounds the historic Fort Clinch State Park on Amelia Island. It includes open waters around St. Marys Inlet and the Amelia River, extending 3 miles into the Atlantic Ocean, and serves as a buffer for the park and surrounding salt marshes.
- Guana River Marsh Aquatic Preserve: This nearly 12,000-acre preserve near Ponte Vedra Beach protects sensitive uplands, salt marshes, freshwater-to-brackish lagoons, and a barrier island ecosystem. Spanning 13 miles of Atlantic coastline with towering dunes, the preserve supports diverse recreational activities, including fishing, boating, hiking, birding, and ecotours.
Smart landscaping for marshland conservation
If you have a marshfront property, your yard is part of a larger environmental network. The choices you make in landscaping and maintenance can support the marshland conservancy, helping protect water quality and wildlife.
Keep a buffer zone
Local regulations require a 25-foot upland buffer between wetlands and developed land. You cannot put turf grass, fertilizer, or chemical treatments in this area. The natural vegetation helps absorb excess nutrients and provides a habitat for local species.
Choose native plants
Native plants thrive without excessive watering or fertilizers. They also attract birds, butterflies, and pollinators. Oak, red maple, and saw palmetto are great tree choices. Salt-tolerant grasses, like cordgrass, help stabilize soil near the marsh.
Reduce runoff
Paved surfaces increase water runoff, which can carry pollutants into the marsh. Installing permeable pavers, rain gardens, and French drains helps control stormwater flow.
Skip the chemicals
Fertilizers and pesticides easily wash into waterways, fueling harmful algal blooms. If you must fertilize, choose slow-release options and apply sparingly.
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Conserve water at home
Water use directly affects wetland health. High irrigation demand can lower the water table, drying up wetlands. Simple steps can help conserve water while keeping your landscape healthy:
- Irrigate efficiently: Water lawns in the early morning or late evening to reduce evaporation. Use drip irrigation where possible
- Harvest rainwater: A rain barrel system reduces dependence on municipal water
- Choose drought-resistant plants: Less water use means a more sustainable landscape
Focus on wildlife-friendly living
Marshland homes are in prime wildlife territory. Thoughtful landscaping can encourage biodiversity while preventing nuisance encounters.
- Plant shrubs and trees for bird nesting sites.
- Avoid invasive species, like Brazilian pepper and Australian pine, which crowd out native plants.
- Minimize outdoor lighting to protect sea turtles and migrating birds.
Do your part in marshland conservancy
Owning property near a marsh is a privilege that comes with responsibility. With the right approach, you can enjoy stunning views while protecting your property, and contributing to the preservation of Florida’s most precious natural resources.
Interested in building a marshfront home?
John Merrill Homes brings dream homes to life in select areas of Florida’s Duval, St. Johns, and Nassau Counties, including waterfront communities like Waterman’s Bluff. Check out our custom designed and built Marsh to River estate, a Southern Ranch-style home that enjoys scenic river frontage.
We’d love to hear from you if you’re planning a renovation or a new home build.
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