Fortunately, people are beginning to realize the importance of these habitats. Federal and state laws and regulations now reflect an appreciation by the general public for the function and value of marshes. Salt marshes perform many functions valuable to human beings. As previously mentioned, they are a major producer of detritus and provide nursery grounds for numerous commercially and recreationally important species. In addition, salt marshes serve as filters to remove sediments and toxins from the water.
Marsh plants break down many pollutants into less harmful forms.
Uptake by sediments and burial in the marsh minimize the toxic effects of pollutants. There is a limit to this capacity to serve as a waste treatment center. Excessive pollutants can overburden the cleansing capabilities of marshes. Marshes also act as buffers for the mainland by slowing and absorbing storm surges, thereby reducing erosion of the coastline. In addition to all this, they provide a scenic vista in our state.