Wetlands Essay

Wetlands are complex ecosystems that contain an extensive variety of habitat types, plant life, wildlife, and hydrological features. Wetland ecosystems are some of the world’s most beneficial environments; contributing to a vast amount of goods and services to our society. Not only do wetlands improve human life, they protect against many dangerous outside sources. Wetlands help to regulate flood control, water quality, erosion control, and many other important matters. Wetlands are one of the most valuable assets this world has, but Unfortunately, do to poor public education of wetlands; many wetlands have been either destroyed or turned into farmland. Consequentially, wetland ecosystems have severely declined. In order to restore and protect our wetlands people need to recognize the important qualities wetlands have to offer.

Wetlands act as natural sponges that trap and slowly release surface water over time. This ability impedes on the water’s momentum and erosive potential, reducing floods, and allowing for ground water recharge. A one acre wetland can hold about 1 million gallons of water. A small wetland may not be able to store 1 million gallons, but a collection of multiple small wetlands can collect a significant amount of water. Even if a wetland can store a lot of water, the flood control depends on the type of wetland and soil quality. It has been recorded that some wetlands could store up to 50 days of flooding, but with the recent depletion of wetland size capacity may be about 8-10 days of flooding. For southern state, it is imperative to have quality wetlands as hurricanes and tsunamis are much more prevalent. Typically, states like Louisiana use stopbanks, levees, and resevoirs to protect against flo...

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...ic analysis. Everyday scientists are learning more and more about the implications of wetland expansion. Although wetland assessment techniques are still controversial; these evaluation methods will improve with the advancement of technology and information. Luckily, the federal government protects wetlands through distinct regulations and sanctions a certain amount of money each year to protect and expand wetland areas. But in order to keep our beloved wetlands, we need to encourage and give backing to agencies like the EPA or WWF. Inspire neighbors and friends to participate in the Clean Water Act Section 404 program – “prohibits the discharge of dredged or fill material into waters of the United States without a permit from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers”. With special reinforcement like this we can protect the Nations wetlands for generations to come.