Implications for Local Wetland Sustainability Based on the Autonomy of Airport-Operating Entities

Abstract

Wetland ecosystems across the nation are declining in both abundance and viability. Often times such decline can be linked to airport management practices, with the autonomy of the corresponding airport-operating entity having implications for local wetland sustainability. This study sought to prove the link between such observed trends, examining four major airports built on or in close proximity to wetlands to see how autonomy impacted mitigation practices. Variables were established to determine the rank of autonomy and a case-by-case analysis of mitigation ensued to prove that there indeed was a link between airports and wetland health. Those airport-operating entities with the most autonomy showed minimal investment in wetland mitigation, either transferring liability to a third party or barely meeting federal and state requirements. While those less autonomous airport-operating entities seemed to go above and beyond mandated requirements, showing their commitment to local wetland sustainability and environmental stewardship.M.S., Environmental Policy -- Drexel University, 201