02/02/2023
Yes today may be Groundhog’s Day but did you know that it’s also International Wetlands Day?
What is a wetland?
💧 Wetlands are areas where water covers the soil, or is present either at or near the surface of the soil all year or for varying periods of time during the year, including during the growing season.
What struggles do wetlands face today?
💧 Wetlands are disappearing three times fast than forests due to pollution, filling, grading, removal of vegetation, building construction, and invasive species. The US alone loses about 60,000 acres of wetlands per year.
What is the importance of wetlands?
💧 Wetlands are important features in the landscape that provide numerous beneficial services for people and for fish and wildlife. Some of these services, or functions, include protecting and improving water quality, providing fish and wildlife habitats, storing floodwaters and maintaining surface water flow during dry periods. These valuable functions are the result of the unique natural characteristics of wetlands.
How can you help?
💧 We can make decisions in our everyday lives which help preserve coastal wetland area and maintain their ecological integrity. Below are steps you can take to protect wetlands.
1.Participate in programs that help protect and restore wetlands. Contact local, state, or federal agencies, community groups, environmental organizations and other non-government organizations.
2. Pick up litter and dispose in appropriate trash containers. Keep surface areas that wash into storm drains clean from pet waste, toxic chemicals, fertilizers and motor oil, which can eventually reach and impair our wetlands.
3. Use native species when planting trees, shrubs and flowers to preserve the ecological balance of local wetlands.
4. Use "living shoreline" techniques that make use of plant roots to stabilize soil if you own waterfront property and your shoreline or river bank needs to be stabilized.
5. Avoid wetlands if you are expanding your house or installing a shed.
6. Use phosphate-free laundry and dishwasher detergents. Phosphates encourage algae growth, which can suffocate aquatic life.
7. Use paper and recycled products made from unbleached paper. Bleached paper contains toxic chemicals that can contaminate water.
8. Use non-toxic products for household cleaning and lawn and garden care. Never spray lawn and garden chemicals outside on a windy day or on a day that it might rain and wash the chemicals into waterways.
9. Enjoy the scenic and recreational opportunities coastal wetlands offer, while preserving their integrity for future generations by minimizing the use of heavy equipment and staying in designated visitor areas where available.
Makes sure to check out www.epa.gov for more information about wetlands and other ways you can help!
We hope you enjoyed this quick informational post about wetlands and remember !
