Wetlands Destruction

Coastal vs. Inland Wetlands

• Coastal Wetlands
  • Include sand dunes, beaches, tidal flats, salt marshes
  • Often associated with ocean proximity
• Inland Wetlands
  • Freshwater areas not near the ocean
  • Include swamps, marshes, bogs, fens
  • Diverse varieties with significant ecological roles

Threats to Wetlands

• Wetlands are under serious threat from various activities:
  1. Urban development
  2. Agricultural conversion
  3. Drainage for infrastructure and economic development

Extent of Wetland Destruction

• Wetland Loss by State:
  • States with minimal losses: Alaska (~0.1%), certain New England areas
  • States with significant losses:
    • Midwest: Approaching 90% destruction (e.g., Indiana, Illinois)
    • California: Leading with over 90% destruction
  • National average: 50% wetland loss

Historical Context

• Wetlands were previously deemed useless and disease-prone
• Federal subsidies once incentivized draining wetlands for economic improvement
• Significant destruction occurred in 19th and 20th centuries

Importance of Wetlands

• Biodiversity:
  • Home to endemic species
  • Critical migration and nourishment sites for various animals and birds
• Water Purification:
  • Natural filtration processes clean water
  • Example: Arcata, CA uses wetlands for sewage treatment
• Flood Control:
  • Wetlands absorb excess rainwater
  • Reduce and delay flood levels in rivers
• Coastal Protection:
  • Mitigate storm impact, including hurricanes
  • Protect infrastructure from waves and storm surges

Conclusion

• Wetlands are vital ecosystems, essential for biodiversity, water quality, flood management, and coastal protection.
• Destruction of wetlands compromises nature’s ability to sustain these benefits, making preservation crucial.