The cleansing power of wetlands provides natural pollution control. Filter Sediment Wetlands filter and collect sediment from runoff water, helping prevent mud from clogging lakes and reservoirs farther downstream. Wetlands provide migration, breeding, nesting, and feeding habitat for millions of waterfowl, shorebirds, and other wildlife. Wetlands are home to thousands of different plant and animal species including many threatened and endangered species. Nine of Nebraska's 11 Federal endangered and threatened species use wetland areas.
Wetlands also provide important winter cover for pheasants and other upland wildlife.
Wetlands slow overland water flows, reducing soil erosion along water courses downstream. Reduce flooding Many wetlands store water temporarily, allowing the water to percolate into the ground or evaporate. The temporary storage reduces the peak water flow after a storm. Wetlands are reservoirs for rainwater and runoff. Many also release the water they catch slowly into the ground.