Definition of Uplands
Uplands are defined as the relatively dry lands that are situated adjacent to wetlands and form part of a mitigation parcel. These areas are often home to a variety of plant species, including exotic plants that may also be found in surrounding wetlands. The term “uplands” signifies land elevated above the water level and not subjected to frequent flooding, making them crucial areas for biodiversity and land management.
Examples of Uplands
- Rangeland: Open country used for grazing or hunting animals, which is typically located on uplands.
- Improved Pastures: Grasslands that have been enhanced through additional seeding, fertilization, or irrigation.
- Pine Flatwoods: Areas predominated by pine trees with flat terrain, often inhabited by various wildlife and plant species.
- Tropical Hardwood Hammocks: Raised, densely wooded areas that consist of tropical hardwood trees, predominantly found in warmer climates.
- Marl Prairies: These are similar to grasslands, found typically in regions like the Everglades, characterized by marl or limestone-rich soils.
- Sandhills: Elevated regions with sandy soil, often with distinct flora and fauna adapted to dry conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Why are uplands important in land management and real estate? A1: Uplands play a vital role in ecological balance and biodiversity. They often serve as critical habitats for various species and support important plant life that contributes to the overall health of the environment.
Q2: How are uplands different from wetlands? A2: The primary difference lies in their water saturation levels. Uplands are relatively drier areas located adjacent to wetlands, which are saturated with water either permanently or seasonally.
Q3: Can uplands be used for agricultural purposes? A3: Yes, uplands can be turned into productive agricultural lands, such as improved pastures or rangelands, often used for grazing livestock or growing crops that do not require very wet conditions.
Q4: Are uplands legally protected similar to wetlands? A4: The protection status of uplands can vary depending on the local, state, and federal regulations. In some regions, uplands adjacent to wetlands may be protected to preserve the ecological integrity of the area.
Related Terms with Definitions
- Wetlands: Areas where water covers the soil surface all or part of the time, fostering aquatic plant life.
- Mitigation Parcels: Land set aside and preserved as a method to compensate for environmental damage due to development in other areas.
- Exotic Plant Species: Non-native plants introduced to an area that can potentially disrupt the local ecosystem.
- Biodiversity: The variety of life in a particular habitat or ecosystem, vital for sustaining ecological balance.
- Ecological Planning: The process of planning for land use based on the sustainable management of natural resources and ecosystems.
Online Resources
- U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service - Wetlands and Uplands
- EPA’s Wetlands Page
- National Wetlands Inventory
- Audubon Society - Conservation of Uplands
- Society of Wetland Scientists
References
- Mitsch, W.J., & Gosselink, J.G. (2015). Wetlands. John Wiley & Sons.
- Greb, S.F., & DiMichele, W.A. (2006). Wetlands through time. Geological Society of America.
- Hammer, D.A. (2020). Creating Freshwater Wetlands. CRC Press.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- Wetland, Woodland, Wildland: A Guide to the Natural Communities of Vermont by Elizabeth H. Thompson
- Wetlands by William J. Mitsch and James G. Gosselink
- Buffer Strip Design, Predicted Effectiveness, and Factors Influencing Effectiveness in Relation to ADvanced Land Management edited by John D. Aber and Jerry M. Melillo
