Wetlands are among the most critical, yet unappreciated, habitats on earth. They provide habitat and food for an astonishing variety of species - over half of North America's bird species rely on wetlands for habitat, either year-round or during migration. They encompass some of the most biodiverse ecosystems on earth, from Florida's Everglades to Botswana's Okovango Delta, from the llanos of Venezuela to the peat swamps of Borneo. They filter pollutants and protect coastal areas from storms and flooding. They are pillars of our economy, not least of all for their role in aquaculture.
Oh, and they are seriously imperiled.
Wetlands are ubiquitous in the world, and you're seldom too far from some sort of wetland, be it a major estuary like the Chesapeake Bay or a prairie pothole, serving as an oasis for migrating ducks. They are continually suffering from drainage, salinization, pollution, or just being filled in. Chances are, you've got a patch of wetlands in your own town - if you have a zoo, there might be one on grounds itself. Each of these provides a great opportunity to educate the public about the importance of protecting these vital habitats.
Take steps to protect local wetlands. Vote for their protection. Participate in a cleanup (or at the very least make sure that your own trash and recyclables are disposed of properly). Maybe volunteer for a frog count or other citizen science program. When/if you eat seafood, make sure it's sustainably harvested.
Develop an appreciation for wetlands. They sustain us and help keep our communities clean and safe. They least we can do is return the favor.
Art credited to Peppermint Narwhal Creative
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