Over time, our understanding of wetlands has changed. Scientists and others now understand the crucial role of wetlands and the many important benefits they provide to the environment and people. Wetlands purify water by removing and retaining nutrients, processing wastes and trapping sediments. They help prevent floods in populated areas by absorbing floodwaters and then slowly releasing them. Wetlands also help to minimize land erosion.
Coastal wetlands play a major role by absorbing the force of storms as they hit shore.
Wetlands provide important habitat to fish and wildlife, and support hunting and fishing activities. In addition, wetlands serve as natural recreational and tourism sites. Coastal wetlands are linked to our nation's estuaries, where sea water mixes with fresh water. Many plants cannot tolerate this environment because of the salt water and the fluctuating water levels. As a result, some shallow coastal areas are unvegetated mud or sand flats.