Wetlands: The Hurricane Fighters
Hurricanes and tropical storms can have devastating effects upon our coasts, our lives and our wildlife. But, did you know that wetlands are the single most important reducer of storm surges, wind speeds and flooding? For every three miles of coastal wetlands, which can include marshes, floodplains and a variety of other wet habitats, the amazing diversity of trees and grasses can reduce a storm surge by one foot. Over thousands of acres, one foot is a colossal amount of water kept from flooding inland areas. Wetlands contain a rich diversity of plant and animal species and are intimately connected to our weather patterns.
Viewer Tip: Protecting wetlands is simpler than it may sound. Consider volunteering for a watershed, conservation or wildlife organization’s clean-up or restoration effort. If you have wetlands near your property, protect them by leaving a “buffer zone” of natural vegetation between your home and the wetland.
Season: Summer
This information is provided by the Georgia Wildlife Federation. For more information visit www.gwf.org.
(Source: National Wildlife Federation, http://www.nwf.org/hurricanes/hurricanesandwetlands.cfm)
