#southwings

A wetland is a land area that is saturated with water, either permanently or seasonally, such that it takes on the characteristics of a distinct ecosystem.[2] Primarily, the factor that distinguishes wetlands from other land forms or water bodies is the characteristic vegetation that is adapted to its unique soil conditions: Wetlands consist primarily of hydric soil, which supports aquatic plants.[3][4]

Wetlands play a number of roles in the environment, principally water purification, flood control, and shoreline stability. Wetlands are also considered the most biologically diverse of all ecosystems, serving as home to a wide range of plant and animal life.[6]

Now that we have a simple understanding of what a wetland is, I would assume that we can all agree that our wetlands are precious to our livelihood as New Orleanians.  John Michael is a spokesperson for the Gulf Restoration Network (and the GRN is the official non-profit affiliate of Voodoo Fest) and every year they host an excursion to visit the wetlands.  This year, I had the opportunity to fly over "the end of the earth" as I like to refer to it with scientists Scott and Meredith of GRN and Southwings, respectively.  Not only was I extremely grateful for this experience, but the knowledge attained was simply fascinating...at times scary but overall completely fascinating.  Our wetlands should be cared for and treasured. It's beyond comprehensible to think that we lose a football field worth of wetlands a day.  And we can do things to change that!

Follow the Gulf Restoration Network Here for Twitter | Here for Facebook

Follow Southwings Here for Twitter | Here for Facebook

Eroding Wetlands

Marsh Fire