Wetlands provide important habitat for diverse communities of plants and animals, including over 50 percent of the federally listed threatened or endangered species.
Wetlands provide the principal habitat for migratory waterfowl.
California provides critical wintering habitat for millions of waterfowl migrating along the Pacific Flyway, which extends from Canada to Mexico. Wetlands provide direct spawning and rearing habitats and food supply that supports both freshwater and marine fisheries. Wetlands detain flood flows, reducing the size and destructiveness of floods. Wetlands absorb and filter pollutants that could otherwise degrade ground water or the water quality of rivers, lakes, and estuaries. Ground Water Recharge.