Wetlands Wetlands are generally defined as a natural community where water is at or covering the surface of the ground for all or part of the year. For most of Florida's history, wetlands were viewed as worthless swamps to be filled for more productive uses, such as agriculture and home sites. Today, wetlands are recognized and protected for their value as habitat for birds and other wildlife, and for their role in protecting waterbodies from pollution.
Wetlands help to filter damaging nutrients and other pollutants from stormwater runoff.
They stabilize shorelines against erosion from fluctuating tides, storm surges and flooding. Like all green plants, seagrasses are dependent upon sunlight for photosynthesis. Once extensive throughout the bays, dredging, filling, prop scarring from boats and decreased water quality from urban runoff, have greatly reduced the abundance of seagrasses. Healthy seagrass communities are among the most productive natural habitat. Some secrete excess salt through their leaves, others block absorption of salt at their roots.