Recognizing World Wetlands Day 2025
The benefits of Washington’s wetlands and how to protect them
Wetlands play an important part in the health of communities and ecosystems worldwide. They help clean water and reduce flooding and erosion. They also provide habitats for fish and wildlife and spaces for outdoor activities like bird watching and hiking.
On February 2, people around the world recognize World Wetlands Day as a chance to raise awareness about the vital role of wetlands for people and the planet.
Washington has about 900,000 acres of wetlands across the state. The Washington State Department of Health (DOH) and Department of Ecology (ECY) protect existing wetlands and expand these natural wonders by addressing challenges related to wetlands and public health. These challenges include water quality issues, climate change, and the effects of harmful algal blooms.
What are wetlands?
Wetlands go by many names, including marshes, swamps, and bogs. These names all describe areas of land that are soaked or covered with water for at least part of the year. Some examples of wetlands include:
- The edge of rivers or lakes
- Shallow ponds or swamps
- Marshy fields
- Forested bogs
- Shrubby areas filled with willows
All wetlands have 3 characteristics in common:
- Very wet soil that produces low-oxygen conditions. These conditions support decomposition.
- Water-tolerant plants that thrive in the low-oxygen conditions of very wet soil.
- Water at or near the surface of the land during the growing season.
Wetland benefits
The benefits wetlands have for people and the environment include:
- Wildlife habitats: Wetlands are home to many kinds of fish, amphibians, birds, and mammals. They also provide habitats for salmon and migratory birds. Communities and ecosystems that are biodiverse, or home to a variety of plants and animals, are healthier. Biodiversity also makes getting outside and having fun in nature more interesting!
- Flood protection: Wetlands act like natural sponges. They absorb excess water and slow down stormwater runoff. This helps reduce flood risks. Wetlands help buffer storm surges and coastal flooding. This will become even more important as sea levels rise and storms worsen. Wetlands also act as a type of natural infrastructure by protecting homes, agricultural lands, and natural areas from flooding. According to some estimates, Washington’s wetlands are worth almost $8 billion in engineering benefits!
- Water filtration: Wetlands filter pollutants from water. This improves water quality for drinking, agriculture, and recreation. Wetlands in urban settings do an especially good job at reducing pollutants in stormwater runoff.
- Carbon storage: Wetlands capture and store carbon dioxide, a climate-changing greenhouse gas. Coastal wetlands can store more carbon pollution than all the world’s rainforests combined!
- Urban green spaces: Wetlands in urban areas provide opportunities for recreation, including bird and wildlife watching, walking trails, and educational programs. They help people connect to nature within city limits. Time in nature can both support mental health and improve quality of life.
Support your health with a wetland visit
Spending time near wetlands and other natural spaces can do a lot to improve health.
Green spaces and other natural environments can:
- Help reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and improve overall well-being
- Encourage physical activities like walking and birdwatching
A great way to experience these benefits is to visit a local wetland trail.
- The Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge: This refuge is located near Olympia. It offers beautiful trails and a variety of bird species. Visitors have the chance to connect with nature while learning about the importance of wetlands.
- The Saltese Flats Wetlands: These wetlands are located in the Spokane Valley. They have miles of trails great for birdwatching and hiking.
Check out the Washington State Parks Rx program for more ideas. You can find ADA-accessible trails through the Washington Trail Association.
Managing wetlands is a shared responsibility
Healthy wetlands are essential for maintaining biodiversity, protecting ecosystems, and making sure we have clean water.
But wetlands face many threats, including development, pollution, and climate change. For World Wetlands Day 2025, let’s work together to protect these important and beneficial ecosystems. Wetlands need support from everyone.
Here are some actions you can take to support wetland health:
- Reduce pollution: Don’t use chemical fertilizers and pesticides in your yard. Instead, try integrated pest management strategies. Dispose of waste properly and avoid letting chemicals, oil, and litter get in storm drains.
- Only plant native species: Native plants help stabilize soil and provide food and shelter for wildlife. They also support water quality.
- Support wetland conservation projects. Volunteer with organizations to restore wetlands in your area. Volunteering is a great way to create community and have a lasting, positive impact. Visit the WDFW Volunteer Opportunities page to find an opportunity near you.
- Learn and share. Educate yourself and others about the importance of wetlands. Share what you learn with friends, family, and your community.
Learn more
Want to dive deeper into the wonders of wetlands? Check out these resources:
- Wetlands: Nature’s water filters, sponges & nurseries
- Wetlands: Tulalip Tribes Natural Resources
- Biodiversity in Washington
- Coastal Wetlands Habitat
- Wetlands Education for Students and Teachers
- University of Washington Center for Nature and Health
This article was written jointly with the Washington State Department of Ecology.
