Why wetlands? Wetlands are important links between bodies of water and land, where the flow of water mixes with earth’s rich nutrients and the sun’s energy, producing highly productive ecosystems that support a wide diversity of plant and animal life.
In addition to the recreational benefits that we all enjoy, wetlands work to filter out pollutants, help control flooding and support the multi-billion dollar fishing industry.
Marsh boardwalk, Hunting Island State Park, South Carolina, US
Activities people enjoy may vary, but most people love being near the water. Wetlands, such as marshes, ponds, flood plains and bogs, have often been viewed as wastelands and are too often drained for agricultural use and development. Wetlands are also stressed by invasive species and pollutants. For all these reasons and many more, they need our help and support.
Peeps and sea oats, Hunting Island State Park, SC, US. 
And of course, you don’t have to live in America to participate. Wetlands are vital to all of us all over the world. Visit a wetland near you and do what you can to support conservation of wetlands.
Wood stork or Wood Ibis, Hunting Island State Park, SC. "On 10-17-01, I counted 23 wood storks roosting in live oak, palmettos and pine at the edge of an inland pond. " Travel sketchbook, 2001, Vickie Henderson.
Beautiful post! There is a wetlands park that my husband and I walk at every night after dinner. The city is pouring tons of money in it making the park a staging center for trails that go from the park up to the mountain for hiking, equestrian and atv's. There will also be a scenic drive that will go along the wash out to the lake. It is exciting to see it progress.
ReplyDeleteWhile walking we see lots of rabbits, and birds. Mostly Gambling Quail,Ducks and Geese. You would never know that you are just outside of Vegas while in the park, it is so peaceful and beautiful with redirected streams of water, ponds and trails.
Thanks. Your park sounds wonderful. Wetlands are such peaceful and busy places. One of my notes in the Hunting Island sketch book read: "A tri-colored heron disturbed a rail under water. It came up from the grasses and struck out, then skulked back down, disappearing in the water."
ReplyDeleteFun. I know you enjoy your walks.