introduction - Pennsylvania Natural Heritage Program

should be avoided within the core areas in order to avoid detrimentally impacting amphibianpopulations, and to help maintain the natural microclimate conditions in the wetland. Further surveysto document amphibian and insect species utilizing the wetlands are also recommended, as thesegroups are likely to form a significant component of the wetlands’ biodiversity, to provide a baselineto guide future management decisions.Supporting Natural Landscape—To preserve water quality and avoid harm to the inhabitants of thewetland, the release of toxic materials (automotive fluids, petrochemicals, solvents, detergents,fertilizers, chemical pest controls) should be prevented in the watershed. Timber removal, roadconstruction, or other removal of vegetative cover should be avoided on steep slopes, andmaintenance of high degree of total forest cover (75-90%) within the watershed will help to safeguardwater quality for the future health of the wetlands. Mining or other extensive bedrock disturbance isnot recommended as an activity compatible with the ecological health of the site.74