Did you know Canada is home to 25% of the world’s wetlands? In fact, there are approximately 1.29 million square kilometres of wetlands covering 13% of Canada’s terrestrial area!
Wetlands are important natural features that provide critical habitat for endangered and at-risk species. They act as spawning grounds for many fish species and offer great nesting, resting, and foraging places for birds and animals. They also play an important role in our global climate by promoting climate change resiliency, acting as a carbon sink, and acting as a natural defence against floods and drought.
Wetlands also benefit people and our well-being, such as providing clean water for us to drink and swim in. They also support recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and birdwatching!
To celebrate World Wetlands Day (February 2) this year, Watersheds Canada has four free resources you can use to learn about the importance of wetlands and resilient shoreline areas. These resources offer valuable information for you to share with your family, neighbours, and local waterfront association or school club, while also outlining tangible steps you can take on your own property to protect the freshwater areas that are so important to our communities.
1. Share our World Wetlands Day infographic
A great way to celebrate World Wetlands Day is to share our infographic (PDF file or photo file) on your social media page or community group’s website! This infographic highlights the importance of wetlands and the many benefits they offer to our communities. By spreading the word on World Wetlands Day, you will help others learn about their significance and why they are critical areas to be valued and protected.
2. Read “Creating a Resilient Shoreline: Keeping a natural shoreline that benefits your family and local wildlife”
How can we use nature-based solutions like naturalized shorelines to protect against the impacts of climate change? This informative article outlines why our shoreline areas are under threat, provides information on how you can pick the best native plants for your property’s conditions, and outlines the importance of leaving shorelines natural (including aquatic vegetation!).
3. Download the “Guide to Building Resilient Shorelines: Mitigating the Impacts of Climate Change” manual
This manual is intended for landowners wanting to increase the resiliency of their shoreline in light of increased impacts of climate change. This manual outlines several actions that you can take to help create resilient shorelines capable of adapting to changing conditions. Download the free PDF here.
4. Download and share the Resilient Shorelands infographic
Did you know a shoreland is made up of many different zones? Learn more about what a shoreland is, who lives there, and how a natural shoreland is most resilient to impacts from climate change in this infographic.
No matter how and when you celebrate Canada’s wetlands, your passion for freshwater health and protection will ensure these areas are resilient and protected for humans and wildlife for years to come!
References
Government of Canada. (2016). Extent of Canada’s Wetlands. Internet: https://www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/services/environmental-indicators/extent-wetlands.html
Government of Canada. (2022). Government of Canada invests in Indigenous-led Natural Climate Solutions across the country. Internet: https://www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/news/2022/12/government-of-canada-invests-in-indigenous-led-natural-climate-solutions-across-the-country.html
Ducks Unlimited Canada. (2007). Dedicated to Wetland and Wildlife Conservation. Internet: https://www.ducks.ca/our-work/wetlands/