Wetlands

Wetlands are among some of the most biologically diverse ecosystems on the planet, and serve numerous environmental functions. These ecosystems act as a natural filter, flood and erosion protection barrier, home for thousands species of plant and animal life, and recreation destinations. These ecosystems, and the species which inhabit them, are being threatened by industry pollution and commercialization. According to US EPA, more than one- third of the United States threatened or endangered species inhabit these ecosystems. Destruction of these environments would not only pose significant impacts to plant and wildlife, but would also alter the water quality and flood protection of residents living near these ecosystems.

One of the most important functions of these ecosystems is the natural filtration of sediments, pollutants, and storm-water runoff. Wetlands have an exceptionally high capability to soak up extra nutrients from the sediment deposits for various organisms inhabiting these environments. I like to think of wetlands as Mother Nature’s sponge. In addition, because of the highly effective filtration aspects of wetlands, there are numerous economic factors that come into play. For insistence according to the US EPA’s website, a study was administered observing the beneficial effects of the Congaree Bottomland Hardwood Swamp in South Carolina. Without these natural wetlands, the state would have had to construct over 5 million dollars in waste water treatment facilities.  Furthermore, in times of drought, wetlands can contribute to ground water recharge and help to stabilize down steam flows.

Wetlands in or around commercial or residential property should be extremely valued and cared for appropriately. These wetlands receive all the excess storm-water runoff and allow for more manageable downstream flows of water, during heavy periods of precipitation. Once again, preserving these ecosystems has serious economic impacts when it comes to flood control plans.  Regional flood plains containing up stream wetlands will have little to no need to construct levees or dredge operations. In addition, wetlands also protect against erosion of shorelines. Hurricanes and tropical storms are buffered by wetlands. The roots of plants serve a dual purpose, in that they absorb the impacts of heavy waves and also hold the soil together against strong waves.

Wetlands not only improve overall water quality and protect against floods, but also provide many natural products to our economy. Each year natural products from wetlands, including fish and shellfish, blueberries, cranberries, timber, and wild rice, as well as medicines that are derived from wetland soils and plants. Billions of dollars of revenue is made each year only to the large comical fishing industry located in the southern coastal region of the United States. Furthermore, these beautiful natural landscapes serve as recreational destinations as well. Various hiking, hunting, painting, and bird watching enthusiasts come from all over the country to experience these environments.  

If we don’t take action now, the future of our wetlands is grim at best. Commercialization and land development pose the biggest threat to these ecosystems. With any environmental issue, a cost- benefit analysis must be conducted. I think it is plain to see, that the cost of destroying these vital habitats will provide no long term benefit. 

Links:
http://water.epa.gov/type/wetlands/people.cfm
http://www.scientificamerican.com/article/why-are-wetlands-so-important-to-preserve/