Wetlands are areas that are either permanently or seasonally saturated with water, and they include marshes, swamps, bogs, and potholes. 2. Wetlands play an important role in the environment by serving as a habitat for plants and animals, filtering pollutants from water, and reducing the impact of floods. 3. Wetlands are also important for human activities, providing opportunities for fishing, hunting, birdwatching, and other recreational activities. 4. Wetlands are threatened by development and pollution, and they are often the first ecosystems to be damaged when a site is cleared for construction. 5. Wetlands can be restored by removing obstructions, such as levees or dams, and by planting vegetation.