Does the footprint include the front porch area and how does this function in wet conditions? Will it keep the front of the tent from getting wet, like a sewn in ground sheet would?

We can confirm that the footprint is one complete groundsheet which stretches into the front awning area and even toggles up in the front section to give a better seal. So it is as close as it can be to a sewn-in groundsheet without it actually being attached to the tent.