Wetland ecosystems perform many different valuable functions and services including:
Ecological Functions such as:
•Cycling elements •Stabilizing atmospheric conditions •Capturing the sun's energy •Sustaining biodiversity Hydrologic Functions such as: •Conveying surface water •Storing surface water •Altering flood flows •Recharging the aquifer •Discharging groundwater back to streams |
Water Quality Functions such as:
•Stabilize and entrap sediment •Sediment/toxicant retention •Remove nutrients and toxic substances •Provide habitat (plants and animals) Human Use Functions such as: •Produce goods (forage, fish, game, fur) •Provide recreational opportunities •Provide attractive vistas •Provide educational and research opportunities •Sustain landscapes associated with cultural heritage •Stabilize stream banks |
Together, these functions add a lot of value and maintaining wetland ecosystems helps to maintain this value and avoid additional costs
We believe that about 5.8% of the time, recharge could add to the value of wetlands by extending services into July and August, when they otherwise might have dried out.
Based on these assumptions, recharge may increase wetland habitat value by as much as $2.79 million by ensuring resiliency and keeping water in wetlands during dry years so that they can continue to provide valuable services.
Based on these assumptions, recharge may increase wetland habitat value by as much as $2.79 million by ensuring resiliency and keeping water in wetlands during dry years so that they can continue to provide valuable services.