Wetlands are Infrastructure

Erosion is about more than lost dirt.

 

Erosion takes place when wind and water wear away at soil, causing soil to blow or wash away. While erosion is a natural process, human influences can also increase the level of erosion, causing undesirable effects. Removal of vegetation, hydroelectric dams, channelization, and increase in impervious pavement can all cause changes in erosion patterns in rivers. In shoreline areas, sea level rise, development pressure, and increased wave action from boats can create erosion issues as well. 

 

Excess erosion can undermine infrastructure such as bridges or houses, causing unsafe conditions. It can also cause the loss of property, impact home values or reducing areas suitable for farming. Once the soil is lost, it is not possible to return to the same site, so rivers can develop steep canyon-like banks while river deltas and shipping channels can become clogged with dirt. Beyond that, sediment is a form of pollution, filling in fish and shellfish habitat and binding with othe pollutants to create a toxic sludge.

 

Maintaining wetlands next to waterbodies can reduce erosion. Roots from wetland vegetation trap and hold sediment, keeping river banks in place. Vegetation will also slow the velocity of water, reducing the erosion potential of moving water.