Wetlands, by definition, are a distinct ecosystem that provides critical habitat for fish, birds and other wildlife. Wetlands can be permanent or seasonal, with both providing support for plants and animals. In British Columbia, over five (5) million hectares of land are currently part of the wetlands system, about 5% of the total land base.
Types of Wetlands
Wetlands are typically broken down as follows:
- Swamp
- Marsh
- Bog
- Fen
Swamps are typically forested while marshes are predominantly made up of herbaceous plants.
Both bogs and fens are peat accumulating ecosystems, often characterized by sedges and moss and the presence of peat.
There are also a number of sub-types of wetlands including mangrove forests, flood plains, mires, vernal pools and many more.
Functions of Wetlands
Wetlands have been described, by some, as nature’s filtration system. Other functions include:
- Recharging groundwater;
- Absorbing and filtering sediments, pollutants and other excess nutrients;
- Maintaining the flow of streams;
- Controlling runoff;
- Storing flood water;
- Reducing erosion;
- Stabilizing shoreline; and
- Helping to regulate atmospheric gases (carbon) and climate cycles.
Wetlands are a vital part of our environment and can be used for a number of purposes such as:
- Water storage and flood control. The ability to control the amount of water reaching a particular area can protect the ecosystems and surrounding communities from damage caused by too much water being deposited too quickly.
- Wastewater treatment. This process removes contaminants from wastewater or sewage and converts it into a product that can be returned to the water cycle.
- Ecotourism. This growing tourism sector allows people to visit these special ecosystems without causing damage or disturbing the wildlife or environment.
- Shoreline stabilization. Tidal and inter-tidal wetlands help to stabilize shorelines and limit erosion. Mangrove forests and coral reefs help to limit the impact of storm surge and protect the shoreline by reducing the height and speed of incoming waves.
There are other uses as well, however, the ones above highlight the overall importance of wetland ecosystems.
Conservation of Wetlands
Conservation of wetlands is vitally important and guidelines from the Province of British Columbia are designed to protect areas where water is either at or near the surface. In British Columbia, regulations are in place to minimize wetland losses from industries such as Forestry, Mining, Agriculture, Oil and Gas, Recreation and more.
For more information on how the Government is protecting the wetlands, go to https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/environment/air-land-water/water/water-planning-strategies/wetlands-in-bc
Wetland monitoring involves measuring specific wetland features over time, to identify factors that may reveal changes in overall wetland conditions. Management pursuits may also include restoration and enhancement activities to mitigate any losses. The information collected allows any changes or impacts to be assessed and addressed.