Importance of Coastal Wetlands
Wetlands are nature’s water filtration system. They are made up of low meadow, high marsh, shallow marshlands, and open water. As the river flows in, and as rains wash storm water through a wetland area, the roots of many wetland plants and microbes act to filter and absorb pollutants. They also slow the water’s velocity so that heavy metal toxins can settle into the sediment layers rather than be carried to the ocean.
The natural processes of tidal action and river flows meet in a coastal lagoon at San Dieguito Lagoon. These natural lagoon cycles make the water cleaner for people at the beach, and help keep pollutants out of the food chain we share with fish and animals. Wetlands contribute to a healthy ecosystem.