Wetlands include marshes, swamps, bogs, and similar areas found in a variety of vegetated conditions, in depressions, and along edges of streams, rivers, lakes, and coastlines. However, after much study it is now understood that wetlands provide many important environmental functions and societal values that are lost when they are converted. One-third of all endangered and threatened species in this country depend on wetlands for at least a portion of their habitat. Wetlands filter and cleanse sediments and other pollutants from runoff from upland areas. Wetlands provide storage and improve the quality of flood waters, thereby minimizing flood damage in several ways.
Wetlands protect shorelines from erosion.
Forested wetlands provide timber to help meet the growing need for forest products. Wetlands provide diversity and beauty in our landscape. The federal government implements wetland regulations through section 404 of the Clean Water Act, which is now subject to reauthorization by Congress. Section 404 of the Clean Water Act regulates the discharge of dredged or fill material into waters of the United States. Before conducting any activity that will result in discharge of dredged or fill material, a Section 404 Permit usually must be obtained from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers prior to beginning the activity.