Wetlands of Rockville

What is a Wetland?

Wetlands are often found along open water such as lakes, ponds, streams and rivers, bays and along the seashore. Wetlands are chock-full of fascinating wildlife like beaver, frogs, ducks, birds, dragonflies, turtles, and more. Rock Creek, Watts Branch, and Cabin John are example of wetlands in Rockville.

Move your mouse around on the picture and see what you might find in a Rockville wetland.

need pics of dragonfly, beaver, salamander, and heron

The Importance of Wetlands.

All wetlands play a crucial part in maintaining the ecosystem.

1. They act as sponges storing up rain and snow-melt water so that it does not rush immediatley into streams and rivers and cause flooding and soil erosion.

2. Wetlands are nurseries and sanctuaries for wildlife where water is abundant, food is abundant, and the conditions favor life. They also are homes to endangered species.

3. Many fish and other aquatic animals such as shrimp require a healthy wetland habitat to provide the food chains on which they depend.

4. Wetlands also act as barriers to keep agricultural lawn chemicals from washing directly into surface water. However, wetland ecosystems can be damaged by pesticide runoff.

5. They also provide recreation resources.

Help preserve our wetlands!