The protection, conservation, and best use of the water resources are matters of utmost public importance. Waterways such as streams, rivers, lakes, bays, and estuaries not only provide water for agricultural, domestic, and industrial use, but also provide habitats for aquatic life, avenues for transportation and commerce, and sites for many forms of public recreation. Wetlands provide water storage for flood protection, filtering of pollutants, and habitats for many plant, fish, and other wildlife.
These aquatic resources are vital to the economy and the well being of society. We all depend on the health of our wetlands and waterways in one way or another. To provide for the best possible use of water resources, we must strike a balance between protection and human use. This is the central purpose of the regulations that govern activities in waterways, wetlands, and riparian areas.