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Learn about Wetlands

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​A wetland is an area of land that holds water long enough to support the growth of vegetation.

Wetlands act as a link between water and land habitats and can be found where the water table is high or near t​​he surface, in low-lying spots, or along lake and river edges. Some wetlands stay flooded all the time, while others flood only during certain seasons. There are several different types of wetlands including marshes, swamps, fens and bogs. Each type is characterized by its own distinctive plant and animal communities.

 How Wetlands Work

How Wetlands Work. Text description below.
Source: Ducks Unlimited

Wetlands play in maintaining environmental balance, from water purification and flood control to supporting biodiversity and combating climate change. Wetlands can:

Dissipates Stream Energy: Wetlands reduce the energy of flowing water, helping to minimize erosion and protect downstream areas

Filters Contaminants and Sediments: As water enters the wetland, contaminants and sediments are filtered out, leading to cleaner water outflow.

Provides Critical Wildlife Habitat: Wetlands offer essential habitats for a variety of wildlife, providing food, shelter, and breeding grounds.

Cleaner Water Outflow: The natural filtration processes within the wetland ensure that the water leaving the system is cleaner and healthier.

Slow Release of Stored Water: Wetlands store water and gradually release it, maintaining water flow during dry periods and reducing the risk of flooding.

Saturated Peat Stores Water: Peat and other organic materials in the wetland retain water, enhancing the ecosystem's storage capacity.

Bacteria Break Down Contaminants: Beneficial bacteria in the wetland break down pollutants, contributing to water purification

Groundwater Flow: Wetlands interact with groundwater systems, aiding in groundwater recharge and sustaining base flow in streams.

Traps and Stores Carbon: Wetlands act as carbon sinks, trapping and storing carbon in their vegetation and soil, which helps mitigate climate change.​

 Wetland Benefits

Wetland Benefits. Text description below.
Source: Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry. 2017 A Wetland Conservation Strategy for Ontario.

Wetlands Provide:

  • Water quality improvement
  • Wildlife and fish habitat
  • Flood mitigation
  • Erosion reduction
  • Cultural and spiritual significance
  • Climate change mitigation​
  • Ground recharge and discharge
  • Recreation and tourism
  • Food and medicine​​​

 Visit a Wetland in Brampton

Heart Lake Conservation Area

Heart Lake Conservation Area

Claireville Conservation Area

Claireville Conservation Area

Donnelly Ponds

Donnelly Ponds

Norton Lake Park

Norton Lake Park

Conservation Dr. Park

Conservation Dr. Park

Christopher Stork Stormwater Pond

Christopher Stork Stormwater Pond