How does wetlands clean water

The future survival of our planet depends on the health of these ecosystems. Freshwater bodies are the end point for industrial and biological waste, in the form of sewage, rainwater runoff filled with nutrient-rich fertilizers and agrochemicals and pathogens from untreated wastewater.

Pollutants find their way through river systems into seas, sometimes creating coastal ocean zones void of oxygen and aquatic life. It is estimated that 80 percent of the waste we produce is dumped untreated into waters, polluting water supplies.

Freshwater pollution is recognized as a growing global concern that is threatening access to safe drinking water for 1. Finding sustainable solutions for improved management and re-use of waste-water is urgent.

In this regard, wetlands play a significant role in pollution control and detoxification. Reduces levels of contaminants in surface waters which recharge underlying or adjacent groundwaters. Contributes to the flows of Class A surface waters. Enhances or protects water quality through chemical action, by the removal of nutrients, by the retention or removal of sediments or organic matter, or by moderating the adverse water quality effects of soil erosion or stormwater runoff. Contributes to the protection or improvement of water quality of any impaired water.

Is adjacent to surface waters, especially impaired waters. Menu Vermont Official State Website. Wetland Functions and Values: Surface and Ground Water Protection Many pollutants are washed by rainfall from urban and agricultural lands and are carried overland to water bodies. In determining whether a wetland is significant for the Surface and Ground Water Protection function,the Secretary or Panel shall, at a minimum, consider the extent to which it: a.

On the other farm, there is not. Which farm do you think is going to release more harmful substances into the lake - the one with the wetland, or the one without the wetland? See the animation to find out. Wetlands can only handle so many harmful substances and they can only make certain substances less harmful.

It is a product of the Chesapeake Bay Program and its partners. Understanding Wetlands What is a Wetland? Types of Wetlands Importance of Restoration. Clean Water Wildlife Economy. Contact Us. Home Benefits of Wetlands Clean Water.