Wetlands and Water Quality

Abstract

The transitional areas between upland and water are often composed of "wet" soils that are known as wetlands. In their natural state, wetlands provide habitat and food sources for hundreds of plant and animal species, and some contribute to water quality. On the other hand, drained wetlands are among the most productive agricultural and forest soils in North Carolina; and, in many eastern counties, developed wetlands are a valuable part of the tax base. Thus, there is considerable pressure to allow development of these areas. Most wetlands are privately owned, but their protection has become a public concern that is currently focused on the role of wetlands in improving water quality and as a habitat for wildlife. This fact sheet addresses the issue of water quality. Contrary to popular belief, not all wetlands contribute equally to water quality. While some wetlands impede drainage flow from developed land, filtering out pollutants and greatly improving the quality of the water entering streams, others provide no significant water-quality benefits. This fact sheet explains how wetland type and location influence water quality, and it reviews the cases for development or preservation.