While wetlands cover only 6% of the world's surface, 40% of all plant and animal species live or breed in them. World Wetlands Day (WWD) occurs each year on February 2nd and marks the date of the adoption of the Convention on Wetlands on February 2, 1971. The day is an opportunity to increase public awareness about the importance of these ecosystems. A few of these wetland values and benefits include producing food, filtering water, acting as flood control, and providing habitat for many species. Wetlands are the vital link between land and water and help maintain biodiversity on earth.
On #WorldWetlandsDay, we're reminded they also provide us with nature’s filters to clean our drinking water and protect us from floods and other climatic stressors. You can learn about the types of wetlands here.
Last year, the Supreme Court weakened federal clean water standards which further threatens decimated wetlands. But Audubon Great Lakes will continue working with state and local decision-makers to strengthen protections for waterways that birds need.
Audubon Great Lakes is working to empower our network in the region to protect and restore Great Lakes coastal wetlands to improve habitat for breeding and migratory birds, build our coastal communities resiliency to climate change and improve water quality for birds and people. For example, in Indiana, our members are urging the Indiana Senate to amend a bill that will remove protections for wetlands. In Wisconsin, our members are celebrating a bill that recently passed that will provide funding to encourage local governments to restore and conserve wetlands. No matter where you live in the Great Lakes region, we must recognize and celebrate the value that wetlands provide for birds and people!
Last year, Audubon Great Lakes continued to make progress on our ambitious vision plan too improve and restore 300,000 acres of high priority Great Lakes coastal habitat. Audubon has now completed nine wetland restoration and resiliency projects and has 12 active projects that are improving habitat across 20,000 acres!Learn more |
