Help Me Understand Wetlands

We want to help you understand the importance and benefits of wetlands.

And as a quick aside --- we are here to help you purchase a new tractor when the time is right.    

Let’s get to it.

There are many realtors and other rural lifestylers that refrain from using the word “wetlands.”

They see nothing but limitations when it comes to wetlands.  For instance, under federal law, you cannot build on them.    

Definition

A wetland is a distinct ecosystem that is flooded by water, either permanently or seasonally, where oxygen-free processes prevail.  The primary factor that distinguishes wetlands from other land forms or water bodies is the characteristic vegetation of aquatic plants, adapted to the unique hydric soil.

Advantages

What many don’t understand is that there are a vast number of advantages that a landowner can get from wetlands. 

Wetlands…

• Require little to zero maintenance.
• Are great for hunting land.
• Attract a vast amount of wildlife.
• Can be beautiful to look at.

Do you have upland on a property surrounded by wetlands?  If so, you are in luck.  Nobody can build on it.  This means you will have a vast amount of privacy. 

Importance

There’s a reason that wetlands are protected by law.

Wetlands provide for animals and plants. 

Therefore you cannot build on them.      

Wetlands serve as a natural water filter.  They draw sediments from the water.  Wetlands also play a role in preserving water and even reduce flooding.  They act like a natural sponge that collects the water and then slowly releases it.

 Many researchers consider wetlands to be among the most productive ecosystems in the world --- comparable to coral reefs and rain forests.

Animals

Animals are attracted to wetlands. 

Wetlands offer protection and a source of food.

Food comes from things like mass producing oak trees.  These trees produce acorns and hickories --- and they produce hickory nuts.

The trees and vegetation also provide cover for animals.  This gives them a great place to sleep as well as a sense of security.  Fish live in wetlands.  Birds are drawn to them.  Wetlands harbor a complex ecosystem of smaller organisms.  This includes insects.  Insects also serve as food for wildlife.

Building

As we discussed a moment ago --- wetlands are protected by federal law --- and are largely not buildable.

That said… there are some rare instances when building is possible.  This would happen in certain forms of agriculture or forestry.

All activities affecting wetlands are regulated by Section 104 of the Clean Water Act.  This means you must get an approved permit approved before doing anything to the wetlands. 

There is much more to learn --- but this was a good start to better understanding the importance and benefits of wetlands.   

Hopefully, this brief article has helped you a bit. 

If you need any further help, or have any questions about wetlands, rural living, tractors, or anything else, please contact your dealer, local mechanic, or call us at 602-734-9944.  Please ask about our current new and used tractor supply.

If you are looking for old, vintage, classic, or new tractor parts, send us a part request.

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