Wetlands role in Flood Management
Wetlands provide valuable flood storage, buffer storm surge and assist in erosion control. Wetlands function as natural sponges that trap and slowly release surface water, rain, snowmelt, groundwater and flood waters. Trees, root mats and other wetland vegetation also slow the speed of flood waters and distribute them more slowly over the floodplain. This combined water storage and braking action lowers flood heights and reduces erosion.
Wetlands: Implications of Climate Change: ERIT: Environmental Resilience Institute Part of the Prepared for Environmental Change Grand Challenge: Indiana University
Wetlands: Implications of Climate Change: ERIT: Environmental Resilience Institute Part of the Prepared for Environmental Change Grand Challenge: Indiana University
EPA works with local, state and tribal governments to restore and protect wetlands to support natural water resources.