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Tips to Protect Wetlands

Release Date: 5/13/2003
Contact Information: Bonnie Smith, 215-814-5543

Bonnie Smith, 215-814-5543

PHILADELPHIA – May is wetlands awareness month, and EPA wants to spread the word about how citizens can protect wetlands in our communities. Wetlands are transition zones between land and water that provide many benefits to man and nature. Wetlands improve water quality, reduce the risk of flooding and erosion, and provide wildlife habitat.

The briefs below describe how day-to-day activities can impact water quality. Please feel free to edit them to include contact information specific to your area.

Pollution Control (30 seconds)

A healthy environment and clean water starts with you. When landscaping your yard, keep wetlands in mind. Plant a wide band of native grasses such as bluegrass, manna grass, or sedges around areas were water lies to catch excess fertilizer or pesticides. You’ll protect streams and wetlands from harmful runoff and improve water quality. For more information on what you can do, visit www.epa.gov/owow/wetlands. Sponsored by the U.S. EPA.

Wildlife Habitat (30 seconds)

A healthy environment and clean water starts with you. Wetlands are home to beautiful flowers, interesting plants, and songbirds, many of them endangered. Take care to not disturb plants or animals when you visit a wetland, and take steps to encourage wildlife to stay. For more information on what you can do, visit www.epa.gov/owow/wetlands. Sponsored by the U.S. EPA.

Landscape Planning (30 seconds)

A healthy environment and clean water starts with you. If you are planning to landscape near a wetland, take care with the types of plants you add. Phragmites, a common reed, and purple loosestrife are extremely invasive and can take over a wetland, pushing out native plants and wildlife. If you take care, native plants will thrive and give you a beautiful natural view. For more information on what you can do, visit www.epa.gov/owow/wetlands. Sponsored by the U.S. EPA.