Wetland Super Powers!
By Amber Schiltz
W
etlands are important in
nature, providing many
benefits for wildlife. But did
you know wetlands help
humans too? By protecting
us from heavy rainfalls and
damaging floods, wetlands
provide something called
an ecosystem service that
benefits humans right here
in Nebraska.
Flooding is actually a
natural process that is
essential in certain
ecosystems, but sometimes
it can threaten human
property and lives. When
wetlands absorb water
like a sponge, it's a natural
process for the ecosystem
that also benefits humans in
a big way. But how exactly
does a wetland's flood
protection service work?
Wetlands are often
found in low areas on the
landscape, and are dry time
and again for much of the
year. This leads to their
sponge-like capabilities
that capture water from
heavy rains or overflowing
riverbanks.
The hydric soils of
wetlands can dry out and
crack, almost looking like
a dusty desert! But when
the water comes, this
spongy soil can soak up
more water than other
soils, and hold on to that
water for longer.
Plants growing from this
soggy soil have adapted too,
often growing long, dense
roots that help them hold
on to the soil and filter
nutrients from the water.
In fact, one acre of wetland
can store up to one million
gallons of water! During
heavy flooding events,
trees and plants living in
wetlands act as barriers,
slowing down the water's
flow, and distributing it
more evenly over a
greater area.
The ability of wetlands
to provide super storage of
water during heavy rainfalls
reduces the height and
speed of floodwater. This
can help prevent damage to
people, crops and homes.
This can often save cities
millions of dollars in damage.
Now that's definitely an
ecosystem service!
Wetlands are an amazing
and important piece of
nature's puzzle, which is
why their protection is vital.
Next time you find yourself
staying dry during a heavy
rainstorm, you probably
have a wetland to thank
for that!
Marsh Wren Little Salt Creek/Wetland: Flooding
Michael
Forsberg
Marsh Wren Little Salt Creek/Wetland
Michael
Forsberg
WETLANDOLOGY: A Kid's Book About Wetlands — 9
