Contrary to popular belief, wetlands provide important functions and are often called “nature’s kidneys” or “ecological supermarkets.”
These important functions include storing flood water, filtering dirty water, and protecting shorelines. Wetlands also support an extensive food chain. If you like crawfish, you’ll find them in wetlands. Many cultures, including the Cajuns of Louisiana and various Native American tribes, have learned to live in harmony with wetlands, using them as a source of food, peat for fuel, and building materials. Wetlands may even help stabilize the climate by serving as reservoirs for excess carbon in the air.
So, do you still believe that wetlands are wastelands? Then read on.