From Florida s mangrove forests to Alaska s coastal marshes, wetland habitats occur where the water table is at or near the surface long enough to support water-loving soils and plants. Varying in shape, size, type and function, wetlands provide flood and erosion control, water quality maintenance and support to a wide variety of life. Bogs - Partially decomposed remains of plants and animals make up a bog s characteristic organic soils known as peat. Lacking good drainage, bogs are found in cooler regions where temperatures and limited oxygen in the water discourage organic material breakdown. Fens - A fen s highly productive habitat is largely influenced by ground water, such as flowing streams, creating a steady nutrient supply.
Fens are wet year-round and have good drainage.
Freshwater marshes, making up nearly 90 percent of our nation s wetlands, are found along shallow edges of ponds, lakes, rivers and streams with a high year-round water table. Coastal marshes flood daily with ocean water at high tides. Swamp - These forested wetlands are usually poorly drained areas on the edges of lakes and streams. Vernal Pools Small - Isolated wetlands characterized by flooding in the winter and spring and drying in the summer and fall, these pools are vital to amphibian breeding and survival.