Why are wetlands important?
The wetlands and watercourses of the State are an interrelated web of nature essential to an adequate supply of surface and underground water; to hydrological stability and control of flooding and erosion; to the recharging and purification of groundwater; and to the existence of many forms of animal, aquatic and plant life.
We depend on wetlands for:
- Water quality protection
- Water recharge to aquifers
- Flood and drought protection
- Shoreline anchoring and stabilization
- Sediment trapping and nutrient retention
- Fish and wildlife habitat
- Nursery grounds for fish and nutrients essential to animals
- Release of oxygen through photosynthesis
- Transforming air pollutant
- Active and passive recreation