For many other animals, such as the wood duck, alligator, and heron, wetlands are primary habitats. Fishing is big business in this country. Wetlands create recreational opportunities for wildlife watching, fishing, canoeing, and hunting Wetlands are nature's efficient pollution fighters, helping keep our waters clean. Because of their position between water and land, wetlands provide a buffer zone that intercepts polluted runoff before it contaminates lakes, rivers, and coastal waters. Fishing has always been a favorite outdoor recreational pastime for Americans.
Wetlands provide opportunities for popular activities such as hiking, fishing, and boating.
Ducks and other birds that depend on clean water and wetlands also generate economic activity for the recreation and tourism industry. Currently, Congress offers limited protection for wetlands under the Clean Water Act. However, a 1997 survey by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service reports that roughly 120,000 acres of wetlands are being destroyed annually. Thus, it is clear that Congress must strengthen clean water and wetlands protection programs in order to preserve and protect our valuable remaining wetlands.