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Introduction

This chapter describes the history, status, and likely future of forested wetlands in the South. Key issues include: (1) the quantity of forested wetlands in the South, (2) the quality of forested wetlands in the South, (3) how function is affected by impacts associated with development and agricultural and silvicultural conversions, (4) restoration of these wetland systems to replace lost functions; and (5) public policies designed to protect and restore forested wetlands. All these issues are discussed. Due to public concerns about the effects of silvicultural operations on forested wetlands and their surrounding landscapes, special attention is given to changes in condition of forested wetlands caused by silviculture.