Wetlands are biologically productive, with a greater diversity of plants and animals than is found in drier habitats. They are excellent habitat for all kinds of waterfowl, shorebirds, and songbirds. Natural wetlands along streams and rivers are important fish-spawning and -rearing areas.
Most wetland management is directed toward creating habitat for fall-migrating and overwintering waterfowl. In this type of management, the main focus is providing food and high quality habitat for waterfowl during the spring migration. A good duck season depends on a good nesting season. Proper habitat during the spring migration ensures the ducks will be in better physical condition when they arrive on the breeding grounds. This will improve nesting success and ultimately provide better hunting opportunities the following fall.
Look through this section for information about managing wetland habitats for waterfowl, shorebirds, invertebrates, muskrats, and beavers.