Wetlands function as natural sponges that trap and slowly release surface water, rain, snowmelt, groundwater and flood waters. They also provide a habitat for birds and other wildlife, and support healthy fish populations. In fact, 43% of the threatened and endangered species on
federal lists rely directly or indirectly on wetlands for their survival. They provide many benefits, and are very important parts of our natural systems because they:

• Provide clean water by filtering out and storing many pollutants, especially phosphorus
• Store water during heavy rain events, and therefore prevent flood damage
• Control erosion
• Provide economic benefits and clean water
• Offer beautiful parts of nature and are wonderful places for recreation and family activities

Because of this protecting these vital natural resources is important.

When working near wetlands or planning to construct near a wetland, it is important minimize the impact of development as much as possible. In many cases it is advisable to avoid building on or near a wetland entirely.

Shorelines and streambanks are important and intricate parts of aquatic ecosystems. Managing these areas properly is important to the health of our lakes, rivers and streams. 

Erosion is a significant problem around shoreline and streambanks, not only because the eroding sediment can fill in our water bodies, but also because areas that are wearing away are less stable and more likely to collapse. This is especially troublesome for homeowners that live near a creek.

Wetlands are characterized by wet soils and support vegetation, called hydrophytes, which adapt to the damp conditions. They provide benefits such as clean water, habitat for wildlife and places for family activities like bird watching. They are one of the very important surface waters that the Minnehaha Creek Watershed District works to protect. A constructed wetland has become a more common method of stormwater treatment due to the extensive benefits wetlands provide.

Read more about:

• Clean Water Benefits
• Habitat Benefits
• Recreation and aesthetics benefits
• Working on or near wetlands
• Wetland Protection
• What else can you do?
• For More Information