In the past, these areas were regarded as mosquito infested wastelands teeming with infectious diseases and unpleasant odors. Scientists now know that wetlands aid in flood control, filter water borne pollutants, and serve as reservoirs of biodiversity. Five hundred years ago, when Europeans first landed in North America, ecologists estimate that 220 million acres of wetlands covered much of what is now the United States. That acreage has since been cut in half, and tens of thousands of acres are destroyed each year. But emerging theories in the art and science of wetland restoration could help replace some of what has been lost.
Wetlands come in many forms.
Six years ago, Mitsch and a handful of volunteers planted about a dozen plant species in a 2.5 acre wetland. A second plot of equal size was left alone so the researchers could observe the effects of natural processes. Although more than a decade remains until the study is complete, the results so far indicate that the untouched wetland evolved into a more productive ecosystem. It produces more peat, which translates to more vegetation, which means denser habitat for wildlife to conceal themselves. Also, more peat may impact the ability of the wetland to filter pollutants.