One side wants to preserve and protect wetlands, whereas the other believes in the rights of owners to use and develop private property as they see fit. At the heart of the controversy are concerns about environmental protection, private property rights, and the public benefits of land development. The problem is compounded by the difficulty in defining wetlands. This fact sheet will help in understanding the importance of wetlands and the efforts being made to protect them. The Value of Wetlands Wetlands provide habitat for a variety of plants and animals, including certain endangered species.
Wetlands also help moderate floodwaters, control sediments, and improve water quality.
The tranquility and beauty of wetland areas make them popular for recreation and relaxation as well. On the other hand, drained wetlands are attractive for agricultural uses and for commercial and residential development. They make good agricultural fields because of their productive soils, high water table, and flat topography. Large, efficient farming equipment is easier to use on drained wetlands than on steeper land. Wetlands are also in demand as building sites, especially if they are near rapidly growing communities where their development can increase the tax base.