Other wetlands are present in rivers, lakes, and reservoirs. The water bodies associated with these wetlands are labeled in black. Without water there would be no wetlands. The two main sources of water for wetlands are surface water and ground water. Surface water includes streams, rivers, lakes, ponds, and oceans.
Ground water is water found in pores or cracks in sand, gravel, and rock beneath the land surface.
Ground water can supply water to wetlands or obtain water from them. The ultimate source of both surface and ground water is precipitation-rain and snow. Protecting the quality and quantity of water in wetland environments is critical to the maintenance of these diverse ecosystems. By understanding and appreciating wetlands, people can help maintain them. Wetlands can be protected by limiting dredging, channelizing, or draining and by protecting the source of water for the wetlands.