Wetland environments are areas in which water is present at or near the surface for a long period of each year. A variety of plants and animals thrive in these environments. They protect shores from wave and flood erosion as well as absorb pollutants, improving water quality.

Since the 1600's, more than half of the original wetland environments in the United States have been destroyed due to anthropogenic practices. Restoring degraded wetland environments is essential in the preservation of natural ecosystems.