How can Billerica residents help?
A large percentage of Billerica landowners have wetland resource areas on or near their property. Currently, the health of our wetlands is threatened by excessive nutrient input (from fertilizers, etc.), the invasion of non-native plant species, trash/litter, and pollutants that flow into parking lot and roadway storm drains.

In addition to abiding by the laws, there are many other ways citizens can help maintain the health of wetland resource areas:


  • Do not use fertilizers near wetlands. Fertilizer overuse causes algae blooms and nuisance plant growth, which can cover our local ponds (Winnings and Richardson Ponds), lakes (Nuttings Lake) and rivers (Concord and Shawsheen Rivers). Use slow-release, low nitrogen fertilizer and phosphorus free or low phosphorus fertilizer.

  • Do not use chemicals near wetlands - Herbicides, pesticides, or deicing agents can be toxic and kill plants and animals. Many stores carry more nature-friendly alternatives.

  • Encourage native vegetation and wildlife. Native species are critical to healthy wetland ecosystems. Consider restoring part of your yard with native plants, especially where a healthy and vegetated inner buffer zone may not exist.

  • Create a natural buffer. Leave a “natural” 25-foot buffer strip of native vegetation around streams, rivers, ponds, and wetlands.

  • No dumping. Do not dump debris (i.e., construction materials, trash, landscaping, scrap metal) in wetlands or the No Alteration Zone (inner buffer zone area). No grass clippings, leaves or brush may be deposited in streams/rivers and ponds or their banks, Bordering Vegetated Wetlands, floodplain, and vernal pools, etc.

  • Maintain your septic system properly. Contact the Billerica Board of Health for more information on proper septic system maintenance, such as pumping needs and impacts of chemicals and hazardous wastes on important system microorganisms.

  • Report violations to the Conservation Department.

Show All Answers

1. What are Wetlands?
2. Are Buffer Zones around wetlands protected?
3. Why are wetlands important?
4. How can Billerica residents help?
5. How do I find out if wetlands exist on my property?
6. When do I need a permit?
7. What is the application process?
8. Can I cut down trees?
9. How do I close out my wetlands permit/apply for a Certificate of Compliance (COC)?
10. How can I find out if there are any wetlands-related setbacks or restrictions associated with the property?
11. Where can I find information about Billerica’s open space, conservation and recreation lands in Billerica?