Wetlands
What's on this page |
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| Types of Wetlands |
| Importance of Wetlands |
| Surrounding Environment |
| Protecting Wetlands |
| Muskoka Wetlands |
- Lands that are permanently or seasonally flooded by shallow water
- Lands where the water table is close to or at the surface
- Being dominated by water tolerant plants
- Developing hydric soils
What are hydric soils?
Hydric soils are soils that are formed under conditions of saturation, flooding, or ponding long enough during the growing season to develop anaerobic conditions (conditions without oxygen) in the upper layers.
Types of Wetlands
There are four major types of wetlands
Find out more about the wetlands in Ontario
Canada has taken a leading role among other nations in the conservation of wetland areas. Wetlands contribute to the environmental, economical and social well-being of the country.
Why are Wetlands Important?
They improve and maintain water quality, prevent erosion on shorelines,
and help control floods
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They trap sediments that would otherwise fill watercourses
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They support complex
food chains
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They provide habitat for a wide variety
of plants and animals like waterfowl
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They
purify water
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They breakdown other contaminants into less harmful compounds
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They help maintain water quality in surrounding
waterbodies
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They provide valuable resource products such as
wild rice
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They provide benefits such as trapping, hunting, fishing which
contributes economically and socially
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They supply recreational opportunities,
such as
bird watching,
canoeing,
hunting
and fishing
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Does the Surrounding Environment Matter?
Wetlands form part of the surrounding area and are part of a healthy ecosystem. The majority of wildlife that rely on wetlands also live in upland areas for a portion of their life. Some endangered species rely on both the wetlands and the surrounding environment for a portion or all of their life cycle.Protecting Wetlands
Wetlands are managed and protected through various pieces of legislation and organizations.
Find out how Ontario protects our wetlands
Muskoka Wetlands
Muskoka has many wetlands that add to its diversity and beautiful landscape. They also help keep Muskoka's watersheds clean and beautiful.
Discover more about Muskoka's wetlands
