Why Are Wetlands Valuable?
For many years, people did not recognize the value of wetlands. Consequently, New York has lost almost half of its wetlands to such activities as filling and draining. However, wetlands are valuable to the people and environment of New York State. These are some of the functions and benefits that wetlands perform: Flood and Storm Water Control: Wetlands are important to how water moves within a watershed. They absorb, store, and slow down the movement of rain and melt water, minimizing flooding and stabilizing water flow. Surface and Groundwater Protection: Wetlands often serve as groundwater discharge sites; maintaining base flow in streams and rivers; and supporting ponds and lakes. In some places, wetlands are very important in recharging groundwater supplies. Erosion Control: Wetlands slow water velocity and filter sediments, protecting reservoirs and navigational channels. They also buffer shorelines and agricultural soils from water erosion. Pollution Treatment and Nutrient Cycli
