How Wetlands Work
By: Ducks Unlimited Communications Specialist Jennifer P. Kross
Wetlands are present on every content on the planet including Antarctica.
But what is a wetland? You might respond with descriptions that include shallow water, characteristic plants like cattails and shrubs, and sticky mud, and you’d be right. Three things biologists use to classify wetlands on the landscape are water, vegetation type and soil type.
A wetland is also referred to as a bog, marsh, slough, swamp and mudflat, among other names.
Wetlands support more than 500 species of animals in North America, and conservation organizations like Ducks Unlimited are working to conserve wetlands and associated habitats for waterfowl and other wildlife.
Not only do wetlands provide habitat for wildlife, they also have a significant impact on clean water and other resources we use every day. Wetlands act like a sponge and soak up excess water on the landscape, helping to keep communities and farm grounds safe from excessive flooding. In addition, wetlands act like a filter to remove pollutants from water. This function ensures humans have quality drinking water and protects water quality in lakes, rivers and streams. Lastly, wetlands help recharge ground water and aquifers that provide water for homes, agriculture, industry and businesses.
To see a wetland demonstration, watch the video “How Wetlands Work”. Not only will you learn more about wetlands, but there’s also an instructional video that shows how to build a wetland replica with simple items. The replica demonstrates all three of the important functions wetlands do for us every day.