The Importance of Wetlands

Once upon a time in the not too distant past, a common view was that a large majority of the United States was filled with swamps, bogs and marshes, which unequivocally needed to be drained to make way for economic growth and development. A study the the Fish and Wildlife Service found that over 221 million acres of wetlands have been lost, However, these environments, all a different type of wetland, are extremely important mainstays of a healthy and complete ecosystem which predates the country’s existence. According to the National Park Service, wetlands are able to provide a number of environmental benefits, including a preventative measure to erosion, carbon sequestration as well as providing a habitat to a number of endemic species, many of which are endangered or threatened in some capacity. Particularly important to a soil and water conservation district is the fact that wetlands are able to improve the quality of the water as well as water supply. 

February 2, 2022 is World Wetland Day, which is based in advocacy for the importance of wetlands and the role they play in our environment. In fact, according to the Wetlands Initiative, wetlands are known as “biological super systems'' and are on par with some of the most traditionally viewed diverse places on the planet, such as rainforests and coral reefs. According to Indiana Fish and Wildlife Services, animals specific to Indiana wetlands include the muskrat and the beaver which could not survive without wetlands. It estimates that about 900 species of different animals require wetlands at some point during their lifecycle, including birds, mammals and reptiles. Indiana Fish and Wildlife Services also points out that about 35% of all endangered species need wetlands in order to survive. Further, there are over 120 different wetland plants which are rare or threatened in some capacity. 

When it comes to flooding and erosion management, wetlands are able to provide a unique solution to a worsening problem. Not only do wetlands provide stability to coasts, wetlands are able to stop the spread of sediment carried by stormwater. Some wetlands, depending on the specific plant species, are able to stop up to 95% of the sediments. In places where impervious surfaces are continuing to be implemented in our modern world, a solution to the runoff and other flooding problems may be as simple as creating a wetland. 

For a local and pristine glimpse into some of the local wetlands in Monroe County, the Beanblossom Bottoms Nature Preserve is located right outside of Bloomington and offers stunning views of a wetland nearly undisturbed. The trail through Beanblossom Bottoms is a raised boardwalk directly above the water, offering increased accessibility to those with limited mobility. Not only is Beanblossom Bottoms recognized as a State Nature Preserve, it is also a state Important bird Area and a Wetland of Distinction. For more information and directions, please visit sycamorelandtrust.org.  
Information sourced from the Indiana Fish and Wildlife Services, National Park Service, Sycamore Land Trust, Wetlands Initiative,