They are usually associated with ancient lake basins and retired riverine oxbows.
Wooded swamps are important for stormwater and floodwater retention.
They also provide habitat for wildlife including white-tailed deer, furbearers, songbirds, ruffed grouse, barred owl and amphibians. The wooded swamps of Minnesota and Wisconsin are divided into two types depending on whether the dominant trees are conifers or hardwoods.