The cleansing power of wetlands provides natural pollution control. Filter Sediment Wetlands filter and collect sediment from runoff water, helping to prevent mud from clogging lakes and reservoirs downstream. Provide Habitat for Wildlife Wetlands provide migration, breeding, nesting and feeding habitat for millions of waterfowl, shorebirds and other wildlife. Wetlands are home to thousands of 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.
Reduce Soil Erosion Wetlands slow overland water flows, reducing erosion along water courses downstream. Reduce Flooding Many wetlands store water temporarily, allowing it to percolate into the ground or to evaporate. The temporary storage reduces the peak water flow after a storm. Supply Water Wetlands are reservoirs for rainwater and runoff. Many also release the water they catch slowly into the ground.