Wetlands Sidebar,280

Wetlands are characterized by water-loving plants and soils that are saturated or periodically flooded. More than just cattail patches, wetlands come in many different shapes and sizes and supply a variety of environmental benefits. TYPES Tidal: Found alongside the Chesapeake Bay and its feeder rivers. Flooded by ocean-driven tides, tidal wetlands are characterized by salt marsh hay, cordgrass and cattails. Nontidal: Found in freshwater areas and fed by rain, groundwater and adjacent streams. Small shrubs like buttonbush and silky dogwood are commonly found in scrub-shrub wetlands. Forested wetlands are sometimes called swamps or bogs. FUNCTIONS Water quality: Wetlands help purify water in rivers and streams. Wetland plants can trap and remove agricultural nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus, which can cause algae blooms that kill plants and fish. Flood control: Wetlands, as natural sponges that absorb water, can protect property owners and farms from flood damage. This is particularly important in urban areas, where development increases the rate of surface water runoff. Erosion control: Grasses can reduce erosion along stream banks and shores by stabilizing soil with their roots. Natural habitat: Wetlands provide habitat for fish, shellfish, waterfowl and songbirds. Bigger animals like muskrat, beaver and deer find food and cover in wetland areas. Natural resources: Staples of the Maryland fisheries — striped bass, oysters and blue crabs — use wetlands as spawning areas. Other economically valuable products like blueberries and timber grow in wetlands. Recreation and aesthetics: Duck hunting, fishing and crabbing commonly take place in wetland areas. They are also prized by nature and bird lovers. Source: Chesapeake Bay Program -30-