Opportunities exist to use pretreated effluent, or other source waters, to restore degraded wetland systems. In general, you should only locate constructed treatment wetlands in existing wetlands, or other waters of the U.S.

(1) the source water meets all applicable water quality standards and criteria,

(2) its use would result in a net environmental benefit to the aquatic system's natural functions and values, and

(3) it would help restore the aquatic system to its historic, natural condition.

Prime candidates for restoration may include wetlands that were degraded or destroyed through the diversion of water supplies, a common occurrence in the arid western U.S., and in heavily farmed or developed regions.

You should avoid sitting in degraded wetlands if the functions and values of the existing wetland will be adversely affected or water quality standards will be violated.

The appropriate Regional/District or State authorities will make these determinations on a case-by-case basis. (Note: Many degraded wetlands are still considered waters of the U.S.)