Wetlands protect our families and our property from flooding Wetlands act like sponges, soaking up rain and storing floodwater runoff. One acre of wetlands can store more than 360,000 gallons of water if flooded to a depth of one foot. Wetlands save billions of dollars in property damage by absorbing flood waters and serving as buffers during coastal storms. Flood damage has tripled in constant dollars since 1950. Destroying wetlands and converting the land to agriculture increases water runoff from fields by 200 to 400 percent.
Wetlands remove pollutants from runoff and keep clean waters clean.
Studies have shown that natural wetlands filter out pollution and remove sediment from surface water. Wetlands act as nurseries for fish, shellfish, and provide homes for wildlife Most fish and waterfowl species are born in wetlands. 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.