They provide natural flood control by storing spring run-off, recharge groundwater supplies, and improve water quality by trapping sediments, pollutants, and act in slowing water erosion. North Dakota's prairie wetlands also serve as excellent outdoor classrooms. Teachers can educate children on the intriguing cycles of nature and college students can use the same wetlands for research in biology, medicine, and economics. Wetlands are also valuable to bird watchers, hunters and trappers, artists, photographers, and a multitude of other people who enjoy the recreational activities that wetlands provide. But when it comes down to it, wildlife is the largest benefactor of wetland values.
Wetlands provide breeding, nesting, rearing, feeding, and predator escape cover for all wildlife.
North Dakota's wetlands are home to a diverse number of birds, mammals, fish, reptiles, and amphibians. During any summer outing, one could observe a variety of animals ranging from deer, hawks, and muskrats to frogs, ducks, and snakes. Most marshbirds and shorebirds are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. It is illegal to harm or possess most species. A few species, such as the American coot, sandhill crane, and common snipe, can be hunted in North Dakota.