Wetlands transition between land and water are among the most productive ecosystems in the world. In Florida, wetlands are defined by looking at the types of plants growing in them, by the types of soil supporting the plants and the presence of hydrology (water level) indicators. Wetlands have been compared to tropical rain forests and coral reefs in the number and diversity of animal and plant species they support. In the U.S., one-third of threatened and endangered species live only in wetlands. In fact, Everglades National Park is a critical habitat for many local threatened animal species like the Florida Panther, American Crocodile, American Alligator, West Indian Manatee, Wood Stork and Snail Kite.

Wetlands provide many benefits, and are vital to the health of our environment.

More than providing vital habitat, wetlands filter impurities from water, store water to reduce flooding, and hold carbon to reduce carbon dioxide emissions. Wetlands filter out 90% of the most common pollutants! They function for our environment like kidneys do for our bodies. Wetlands are tied to our groundwater system making their existence and health important to drinking water and springs. Wetlands also offer many recreational and cultural opportunities.