Functions and Values of Watersheds

People's attitudes towards the natural environment are changing. Not so long ago, the neighborhood stream was seen as unimproved or unused land -- space on which we could eventually build something or into which we could throw our trash and waste on the assumption that it would eventually reach the ocean and there disappear without effect. Increased erosion and flooding and deteriorating water quality have revealed the hidden function of a balanced ecology, and loss of nearby recreational green space and wildlife has revealed the hidden values of local forests and streams. The economic impacts remain invisible to most of us.

• Functions of a balanced ecology (see "American Wetlands")
  • Flood Control: absorbing water during heavy rainfall then slowly releasing it downstream.
  • Erosion Control: Wetlands plants bind soil with their roots.
  • Fish and wildlife habitat: most fish and shellfish we eat live in wetlands when they are young. Wildlife migrate through wetlands' 'linear corridors'.
• Values of green space (see "American Wetlands")
  • Quality of life: natural buffers between land uses create diversity within development.
  • Water quality and availability: help purify water by processing nutrients, suspended materials, and other pollutants. Increase the availability of water by absorbing and adding water in wet seasons, then gradually releasing it during dry periods.
  • Recreation: boating, fishing, hiking, biking.
• Economic impacts of protected streams and forests (See Rivers, Trails and Conservation Assistance, National Park Service)
  • Create jobs
  • Enhance property values
  • Expand local businesses
  • Attract new or relocating businesses
  • Increase local tax revenues
  • Decrease local government expenditures
  • Promote a local community

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