What are wetlands and why are they important?
A wetland is a lowland area, such as a marsh or swamp, that is typically found under a wide range of “wet” conditions. At least some of the time, a portion of the wetlands’ soil is saturated by water, resulting in the maintenance of moist soil. Wetlands are known as transition zones where the flow of water, the cycling of nutrients and the energy of the sun meet to produce a unique ecosystem characterized by moist soil and lush vegetation. They are often referred to as “nurseries of life” because they provide habitat for many of the area’s vibrant and endangered species as well as other migratory animals that may pass through the land over time. The Hamilton Wetlands Restoration Project site is mostly composed of intertidal wetlands, or emergent marsh habitat and mudflats that are exposed during low tides. Subtidal wetlands, aquatic habitats that are never exposed during low tide and grassland communities, also makeup the Hamilton Wetlands Restoration Project site. Restoration of these
