Wetland Vulnerability in East Anglia: a Possible Conceptual Framework and Generalized Approach

A study of surface-water and groundwater conditions in some 60 wetlands in East Anglia has concluded that a general classification based upon three strategic controls would be of considerable advantage in the initial recognition of wetland vulnerability to derogation and/or pollution. The method adopted for the East Anglian work in which individual wetland dossiers were compiled is described and a general hydrological classification proposed. The general approach ensuing from the classification, for the quantification of wetland water balances and vulnerability, is also given.