Wetland loss and degradation has been significant, especially in Southern Ontario. Approximately 80% of Southern Ontario’s original wetlands have been lost. When a watershed contains 10% wetland cover or more, flooding is greatly reduced and base flows within rivers are better maintained. Other important benefits that wetlands provide are:

• Wetlands help reduce the risk of flooding by providing a catchment area for surface run-off.

• They supply streams with inflowing water and help maintain groundwater levels which is important for your well-water supply.

• Wetlands also provide important breeding grounds for amphibians, such as spring peepers, tree frogs and a variety of salamanders, click here to hear different calls for frogs found in Ontario.

• Wetlands not only provide habitat for animals, but many plants can only survive in wet areas. Some of these locally rare wetland dependent plants include: Eastern Button Bush (Cephalanthus occidentalis), Showy Lady’s Slipper (Cypripedium reginae) (left) and Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis)(right).

• Wetlands are incredible filters, increasing the quality of water that passes through them since the water travels very slowly by way of a variety of medians such as plant roots, organic and mineral soils.

• Wetlands provide opportunities for recreational activities such as hiking, bird-watching and nature walks.
• They also allow for educational opportunities for our schools and community groups.

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