A Crucial Connection

Wetlands are a beautiful place to visit. Brightly colored flowers and a variety of birds are just some of the wonderful things to see in a wetland.<br>water rushes off the land in a storm. When the water reaches the wetlands, plants help to slow the water's flow. Then, the spongy soil absorbs the extra water, reducing flooding.<br>Water rushing off the land carries soil, trash and chemicals to the bay. Wetland plants trap this pollution, reducing erosion and keeping the bay clean.<br><i><b>The Chesapeake Bay and people need wetlands.</i></b><br>An acre of wetland produces more food than an acre of good farmland. Animals can find plenty to eat in wetlands. Wetlands also feed people. Have you ever eaten crabs, fish, or duck?<br>Wetlands give us more than food. People earn money catching and selling fish, crabs, and oysters. People also sell boats, fishing gear, and other supplies so we can have fun on the bay.<br>Baby fish and crabs hide from bigger fish in a bed of underwater plants. These plants, called submerged aquatic vegetation, provide food and oxygen for many animals.