Download Wetlands: Why Important? PPT

“Wetlands” describes a variety of
areas where plants and animals
especially suited to wet
environments can be found.
Wetlands are among the richest
and biologically most productive
habitats on Earth.
Wetlands occur in many forms,
including forested swamps, deep
and shallow marches, bogs, and
prairie potholes.
Wetlands habitats have a
significant role in the many varied
environments they are found.
1/2 to 2/3 of American
wild ducks hatch in the
“prairie pothole” region
marshes in North
Dakota, South Dakota,
Minnesota, and Iowa.
Reason #1:
Wetlands provide areas for nesting and
shelter for not only birds, but also prairie
animals.
Reason #2:
Migratory birds need wetland areas
(marshes, ponds, lakes, etc.. to rest and
find food during the long flights.
Reason #3: Keeping lakes and rivers clean.
Wetlands clean and purify run-off and ground water for
use by birds and animals by trapping nutrients,
sediment and other pollutants.
a) Sediment (washed away top soil from surrounding
farmland) and debris (excess materials from the
surroundings) are filtered out by the swamps, bogs,
etc..
b) The pond or marsh balances the pH (acidity) of the
water; keeping it normal and healthy for living things.
Reason # 4:
Wetlands recharge ground
water by providing an area
for run-off to pool and seep
into deeper under-ground
water storage areas and
also extend streamflow
during low rainfall or
drought.
Reason #5:
Wetlands prevent flooding of
prairie areas by acting like a
sponge and soaking up run-off
water.
Reason # 6:
More than ½ of all adults in the US hunt, fish,
bird-watch, or photograph wildlife. These
recreational activities are dependent on healthy
water habitats. Many of these opportunities
benefit both local, state and the national
economy.
Wetlands support about 5,000 plant species,
190 amphibian species, and 1/3 of all bird
species.
These bogs, marshes, swamps,etc… provide
habitat for about 1/2 the fish on the threatened
and endangered species lists in the US.
These waters are important spawning and
nursery areas for many kinds of fish and
shellfish.
Wetland conservation is a very
important issue in our country
today.
Help protect our “prairie
potholes”!!