Urban wetlands : a dissertation submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the Diploma of Landscape Architecture at Lincoln College / $$c by Susan J. Asplin.

Abstract

Most urban centres are sited on low lying areas where wetlands would have naturally occurred. The previous attitude was to drain and fill wetlands to stabilise land for urban or industrial development. But now their values as unique and natural ecosystems and the benefits they can offer society are beginning to be realised, albeit too late for those wetlands that once existed in many of the built up areas in New Zealand.

The opportunity now exists to make the most of the wetlands that are left in our towns and cities. Unfortunately, many are polluted and severely damaged, some irreversibly so, but if managed properly, most can be restored back to health to become a valuable amenity to the urban population.

The main objectives of this dissertation are as follows:

* To identify the main threats to existing urban wetlands

* To identify the values (natural characteristics and human uses and benefits) of wetlands in urban areas

* To put forward some ideas for conservation and management of wetlands in developed areas (or areas to be developed)

* To give Landscape Architects an awareness of the design potential and utilitarian function of wetlands in urban areas through the use of examples and case studies.