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The Common Sense
Environmental Fund
Wetlands
"Wetlands"
is the collective term for marshes, swamps, bogs and similar areas. Wetlands are
found in flat vegetated areas, in depressions in landscapes, and between water
and dry land along the edges of streams, rivers, lakes, and coastlines. Wetland
areas can be found in nearly every country and climatic zone. Inland wetlands receive water from precipitation, surface water, tides
and/or groundwater. Surface water sources include run off and storm water.
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Since the 1600s, more than half of the
original wetlands in the lower 48 United States have been
destroyed. 22 states have lost at least 50% of their original
wetlands. Indiana, Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky, Louisiana and
Ohio have lost more than 80% of their original wetlands and
California and Iowa have lost nearly 99%. Since the 1970s, the
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most extensive losses have occurred in Louisiana,
Mississippi, Arkansas, Florida, South Carolina, and North Carolina.
Wetlands have been drained and converted to farmland, filled for housing
developments and industrial facilities and used as receptacles for
waste. Human activities continue to adversely affect wetland ecosystems.
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More recently, society has begun to understand the functions of
wetlands and the values humans obtain from them. Wetlands help
regulate water levels within watersheds; improve water quality;
reduce flood and storm damages; provide important fish and wildlife
habitat; and support hunting, fishing and other recreational
activities. Wetlands are important features in watershed management. |
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The Common Sense Environmental Fund
researches, analyzes, assists and invests in organizations
conducting research, conservation and restoration projects that
protect the planet's wetland resources from filling, dredging,
draining, burning, and development. To save our planet for future
generations we need your help. The Common Sense Environmental
Fund is
a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Your contribution is tax-deductible
to the fullest extent of the law. To make a donation
please click here.
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