Wetlands provide a vital link between water and land. In the past, wetlands were regarded as wastelands and as places to avoid or, better yet, eliminate. Largely because of this negative view, more than half of America's original wetlands have been destroyed.

We now know that wetlands are valuable natural resources. Whether drier or wetter, bigger or smaller, wetlands provide important benefits to people and the environment. Wetlands help regulate water levels within watersheds; improve water quality; reduce flood and storm damages; provide important fish and wildlife habitat; support fishing and other recreational activities; and provide inspiration. Wetlands are natural wonderlands of great value.