Only recently have the people of Texas realized the importance of wetlands to both the ecological and economic vitality of the state. Values and Functions Wetlands are important areas of great biological diversity and productivity. It it estimated that more than 95 percent of the Gulf of Mexico's recreational and commercial catch of fish, oysters, shrimp, and crab requires coastal wetlands for spawning, nursery, and feeding habitat. Three-fourths of North America's bird species depend upon wetlands for food and for breeding and wintering grounds. Well over one-third of the 564 plant and animal species listed as threatened or endangered in the U.S. utilize wetland habitats.
Coastal wetlands provide many benefits to society.
They filter pollutants from surface waters, maintain groundwater supplies, dissipate floodwaters, and protect shorelines from erosion. Wetlands also offer a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities for fishermen, hunters, canoeists, and naturalists. In the spring of 1995, the General Land Office applied for and received a grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to produce a wetland handbook for local governments along the Texas coast. An advisory committee representing coastal citizens, public officials, and business leaders was formed to assist the GLO with the project's design and preparation. The local government handbook contains sources of financial and technical assistance, provides guidance for developing a local wetland plan, and highlights local government successes in wetlands management.