Economic Wetlands act as natural filters for our ground water supply, reducing the need for expensive investments in water purification. Wetlands also mitigate floods by absorbing water and releasing it slowly, which reduces costs that we might otherwise pay for insurance and clean-up. Environmental Wetlands support a high density and diversity of native and migratory animal, plant, and insect species. Many oceanic species rely on wetlands for some portion of their lives. Wetlands are one of the state's largest repositories of biological capital.
Wetlands are also among the habitats most sensitive to disturbance.
Social Wetlands enhance our quality of life by contributing to our recreational opportunities. Hunting, fishing, and bird watching are activities dependent upon clean water and habitat. Birds and other species that rely on wetlands for habitat enhance our daily relationship with the natural environment. Knowledge Gaps These data are based on permits to legally alter and fill in freshwater wetlands. Some wetlands are filled illegally while others slated for development with permits remain untouched.