Vulnerability - Organic Matter

The vulnerability of a wetland to organic matter is dependent on:

• Flushing rates and dilution: wetlands with low flushing rates or small dilution are more vulnerable as organic matter (and its associated impacts) is concentrated in a small area for longer periods
• Wetlands with short water residence times are less vulnerable than those with long periods of inundation (e.g. permanent lakes)
• Wetlands with naturally high levels of organic matter will be less vulnerable to increased organic matter loads
• Water depth and vertical mixing: shallow and well mixed system are less vulnerable as re-oxygenation from the surface more rapidly penetrate the whole water column
• Stratification and/or poor mixing may result in areas of anoxia/hypoxia