Wetlands

Wetlands support abundant populations of fish, ranging from freshwater bass and trout to saltwater salmon and redfish.  They serve as vital spawning grounds, nursery areas, and feeding grounds. Wetlands provide sheltered environments with ample food sources, contributing to the growth and reproduction of various fish species. Additionally, wetlands help regulate water flow and temperature, creating suitable conditions for fish to thrive.

Wetlands play a crucial role as stopover points and wintering grounds for shorebirds during migration. Species such as sandpipers, plovers, and egrets rely on wetlands for feeding, resting, and nesting. Wetlands offer rich feeding grounds with abundant food resources, including insects, crustaceans, and small fish, supporting the energy needs of migrating shorebirds. Additionally, wetlands may provide safety from predators and adverse weather conditions during migration. 

Wetlands support a diverse array of wildlife besides ducks, fish, and shorebirds. Invertebrates such as insects, crustaceans, and mollusks thrive in wetlands, serving as crucial food sources for various animals. Wetlands are one of the most productive and biodiverse ecosystems on Earth, with 40 percent of all plant and animal species living or breeding in wetlands. Threatened and endangered species are no exception, with approximately half of all Endangered Species Act species in the United States being wetland dependent.

Wetlands support rich aquatic biodiversity, making them ideal locations for fishing. Anglers can cast their lines in wetlands and associated waters to catch a variety of fish species, including bass, trout, and catfish, contributing to enjoyable recreational experiences.

Wetlands are ecological hotspots for birders, offering opportunities to observe a diverse array of species in their natural habitats. From majestic waterfowl to elusive marshbirds, wetlands provide unparalleled opportunities for viewing and  photographing a multitude of birds.

Wetlands provide serene settings for kayaking and canoeing adventures. Paddlers can navigate through winding waterways, exploring the tranquil beauty of wetland ecosystems while immersing themselves in nature. The peaceful surroundings and abundant wildlife enhance the experience, making kayaking and canoeing in wetlands a popular recreational activity for outdoor enthusiasts.

Wetlands act as natural carbon sinks, absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere through the process of photosynthesis. This helps mitigate climate change by reducing the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.

Wetlands help mitigate the risk of floods by absorbing and storing excess water during heavy rainfall or storm events. The vegetation and soil in wetlands act as natural sponges, slowing down the flow of water and reducing the intensity of floods downstream. By serving as floodplains, wetlands protect nearby communities, infrastructure, and agricultural lands from damage caused by flooding.

Wetlands provide critical protection against coastal erosion by acting as a buffer zone between land and water. The dense root systems of wetland plants stabilize soil and prevent it from being washed away by waves and currents. This helps maintain the integrity of coastlines, preserves valuable land, and protects coastal communities from the impacts of erosion and sea-level rise.

Biodiversity is what makes our ecosystems productive and healthy. Wetlands provide life-sustaining habitat for a wide diversity of species, including at least a third of the nation’s threatened and endangered species and more than 900 North American plant and animal species. Diverse ecosystems are more resilient to environmental changes and disturbances, such as climate change, invasive species and habitat destruction.