Why do wetlands matter for rivers?

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Wetlands are perhaps the most diverse and life-abundant areas in a river system. When functioning properly, wetlands provide important habitat to many species, flood storage in times of heavy precipitation, and buffer high flows moving downstream. They are also able to settle contaminants in the water and act as natural filtration systems.

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The Neponset River Watershed Association recognized the significance of its saltwater wetlands and undertook two restoration projects. The area has a long history of industrial development and its wetlands were either completely lost or severely degraded. With multiple partners, NepRWA has been able to restore these resources and bring back important habitat. Read more about NepRWA's success.

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