Wetlands for Private Landowners

Wetlands mean different things to different individuals. Some people envision a dark dreary swamp; others find a place to enjoy an early morning duck hunt or an afternoon of wildlife watching. By definition, a wetland is a tract of land containing enough soil moisture to support certain types of water tolerant vegetation. Lands that fit this description can vary from permanently flooded sloughs to areas that have only saturated soil during part of the year. Wetlands have many ecological functions, such as removing sediments and pollutants from surface waters, and reducing flood severity by slowly releasing excess water back into the stream or water table. Wetlands are biologically rich, with a great diversity of plants and animals than is found in drier habitats. They provide excellent homes to all kinds of waterfowl, amphibians, shorebirds, and songbirds. Wetlands along streams and rivers are important as fish spawning and rearing areas. Managed wetlands provide critical habitat for many migratory birds, and benefit greatly from vegetation and water level management. Missouri Department of Conservation biologists can also provide individual management recommendation to wetland owners. The following informational materials can also greatly benefit your understanding and give you useful management techniques.