These unique ecosystems have a small footprint but play a big role in providing habitat for wildlife, and protecting us against floods and pollution.
This ecosystem by many names—bogs, swamps, bayous, marshes, billabongs, fens, vernal pools, lagoons and other waterlogged fields and forests all fall under the broad wetland category. If water, salty or fresh, is present on top of or just below the soil, it’s a wetland. You’ll know you’re in a wetland when your shoe prints turn muddy and wet.
They make up just 6 percent of Earth’s surface. Despite their small footprint, wetlands have important jobs, providing fresh water and habitats, and fighting climate change.
Wetlands were historically considered wastelands. Many have been drained and filled in with sediment to become solid ground for structures like homes, highways, and businesses. But protecting these misunderstood environments can help wildlife thrive and protect us from a changing climate.
What are wetlands, and why are they so critical for life on Earth?
This ecosystem by many names—bogs, swamps, bayous, marshes, billabongs, fens, vernal pools, lagoons and other waterlogged fields and forests all fall under the broad wetland category. If water, salty or fresh, is present on top of or just below the soil, it’s a wetland. You’ll know you’re in a wetland when your shoe prints turn muddy and wet.
They make up just 6 percent of Earth’s surface. Despite their small footprint, wetlands have important jobs, providing fresh water and habitats, and fighting climate change.
Wetlands were historically considered wastelands. Many have been drained and filled in with sediment to become solid ground for structures like homes, highways, and businesses. But protecting these misunderstood environments can help wildlife thrive and protect us from a changing climate.
What are wetlands, and why are they so critical for life on Earth?