Wetlands

Wetlands are one of the most biodiverse of all habitats in the Grand River watershed, because they are the meeting place of land and water.

They are found in pockets of different sizes. Wetlands provide a lot of ecosystem services. They regulate water flows and help with flood control, provide water supply, control erosion, purify water, offer places for recreation and produce food. One estimate says those services are worth $22,000 per hectare per year, making the combined value of all Grand River wetlands about $1.4 billion.

Many wetlands were lost when the watershed was developed in the 1800s. They were drained for farmland or urban development.

That's why it is so important to protect existing wetlands and, where possible, recreate them.

It's also important to let them do their jobs. The land and vegetation around a wetland should not be disturbed. Where vegetation has been removed, it's good to replant trees and shrubs.

Some lost wetlands can be restored or recreated. The GRCA is doing this successfully in many locations, including Luther Marsh at the north end of the watershed and Dunnville Marsh near Lake Erie.

Wetland facts

• Historic size: 1,840 square kilometres - 27 per cent of the watershed.
• Current size: 644 square kilometres - 10 per cent of the watershed.
• Strategy: Protect existing wetlands and recreate former wetlands where possible.
• Species at risk: least bittern, Hill's pondweed.
• Read the GRCA's Wetlands Policy and related documents.