Michigan wetland by Sara L. Herzog

Ecosystems work in much the same way as bustling cities do. Amidst a constant frenzy of activity, each member plays an important and specific role within a self-contained world. Some of the most vibrant city-like ecosystems in the world are wetlands, which are rich in plant and animal species and have tremendous beneficial capabilities for agriculture.

Unfortunately, about 50 percent of all U.S. wetlands disappeared by 1993, according to a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service census. In an effort to benefit the agricultural industry and the environment, the National Wildlife Federation released a new report about Future Friendly Farming practices, calling for farmers to work toward restoring native lands, such as a wetlands, while reaping from the natural benefits.

Working with Native Lands

The report identifies seven techniques farmers can implement to work alongside native lands and wildlife to gain natural benefits. By implementing practices like organic agriculture and planting cover crops, farmers can save money and simultaneously decrease soil erosion, improve nutrient retention in the soil, and increase nesting for ground-nesting birds. In an effort to retain or return native ecosystems, farmers can benefit from wetlands’ remarkable self-sustaining qualities.

What’s So Great About Wetlands?

Wetlands ...

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Wildlife Promise ... National Wildlife Federation Blogs.