Watersheds Canada promotes the importance of wetlands on World Wetlands Day

As we come together to celebrate World Wetlands Day on February 2nd, it is important to reflect on what makes these areas the wonders they are. Brimming with life, wetlands are vital ecosystems that benefit both nature and humanity. They not only soften the blow of flooding events and protect our communities, but they also provide shelter to wildlife and help combat climate change as effective carbon sinks. Wetlands are irreplaceable. Protecting these ecosystems is becoming more vital as they face increasing challenges.

Wetlands act as natural buffers. Like sponges, they can absorb excess rainfall or snowmelt, reducing the severity of floods. This function not only protects nearby communities and wildlife but is also estimated to save billions of dollars in potential infrastructure damage. Beyond their protective capabilities, wetlands also provide essential habitat to many native species of plants and animals, many of which are endangered or at risk of extinction.

Watersheds Canada, an environmental action charity that delivers programs nationwide, never stops working to protect and enhance critical shoreland and wetland habitats. One benefit of these areas is their facilitation of spawning and nesting sites for many fish and wildlife species. When a waterfront property owner works alongside Watersheds Canada to naturalize their shoreland, they have the best of both worlds: they resolve locally experienced issues by creating a healthy, resilient shoreland, while also preserving their view and enjoyment of the property.

To celebrate World Wetlands Day, Watersheds Canada has four free educational resources to promote the importance of wetlands and inspire you to take initiative in protecting them. These resources are designed to raise awareness about the importance of wetlands and provide steps that anyone can take to contribute to their preservation. In particular, you can download resources to share on social media pages, and access Watersheds Canada’s ‘Shoreline Habitat Creation Manual’. This manual is intended for landowners wanting to ecologically enhance their property and create essential habitats for fish and wildlife species. Inside, landowners will learn how to protect and implement natural shoreline habitats in their watershed. 

Canada is home to 25 per cent of the world’s wetlands, making it an essential contributor in protecting and stewardship these ecosystems. As Canadians, we bear a responsibility to help protect these ecosystems and the species they contain. There are countless ways to make a difference, such as planting a natural shoreline, volunteering in wetland conservation, or spreading awareness.

Article contributed by Jonathan Miller from watersheds.ca