Gone are most of our prairies, wetlands, floodplain forests, and upland woods. Given this tremendous loss, it is imperative that we manage what remains of our natural heritage in ways that ensure its survival and facilitate its improvement. Wetlands Wetlands are an extremely important component of our natural landscape. They reduce the deleterious effects of floods and drought by storing and gradually releasing water. They reduce erosion and remove sediment from runoff, and also filter or remove toxicants, such as heavy metals and excess nutrients.
Some wetlands are areas of groundwater recharge.
They provide important habitats for native plants, fish, game, and other wildlife and are crucial in maintaining our biodiversity. Finally, as places to observe and photograph nature, to hike, to hunt, or to fish, wetlands have recreational and aesthetic values. Scientists at the INHS are dedicated to increasing scientific knowledge and public awareness of wetlands, and helping to reduce the loss or degredation of this valuable resource for the state of illinois. The place is a regional nature reserve that currently comprises over 200,000 acres of protected habitat. Major habitats in the region include forests, oak savannas and woodlands, grasslands, streams, and wetlands.