How Wetlands Work

Wetlands are the kidneys of aquatic ecosystems. They filter pollutant runoff before it enters rivers and other waterways. They are an essential habitat requirement of migratory birds, fish and many plant species.

What are wetlands?

The Ramsar definition of wetlands includes "areas of marsh, fem, peatland or water, whether natural or artificial, permanent or temporary, with water that is static or flowing, fresh, brackish or salt, including areas of marine water the depth of which at low tide does not exceed six meters". As you can see the definition is very broad, and each type functions very differently.

So what is happening to our wetlands?

Wetlands were once prevalent around Perth, however; it is estimated that over 70 % of the wetlands on the Swan Coastal Plain have been destroyed, while those that remain have undergone significant modification since European settlement. There has been a long held misconception that these important components of our ecosystem are nothing more than wastelands. Many were drained to provide land for agriculture and urban development, and a number of valuable sites have ended up as rubbish tips!

What is the future of our wetlands?

Even today, wetlands are being filled in to make way for new housing developments. There is a great need for the community to understand the role that wetlands play in nurturing a healthy ecosystem, and that they are certainly not limited to mosquito breeding grounds where ogres live. The preservation of our wetland environments is imperative, and with sound wetland management strategies in place, our current diminishing wetland ecosystems may have a future.