Until recently, wetlands were often viewed as wastelands, useful only when drained or filled. Now, we know that wetlands benefit people and the natural world in remarkable ways. They provide critical habitat for wildlife, water storage to prevent flooding and protect water quality, and recreational opportunities for wildlife watchers, anglers, hunters, and boaters.
Every wetland is unique.
One wetland on the north edge of town may perform different functions than another on the south edge - even though they may appear at first glance to be very similar. A bog in northern Wisconsin may be valued for different reasons than a bog in southeastern Wisconsin. Wetland functional values are determined by a variety of different parameters including physcial, chemical and biological components. Wetlands in Wisconsin were defined by the State Legislature in 1978. This page describes the basic functions that can occur in a wetland.