Salt marshes are among the most productive ecosystems on Earth, even surpassing many types of agricultural land. These coastal wetlands are typically found in intertidal zones, such as behind barrier beaches, along the banks of tidal rivers, or bordering sheltered waters, where they thrive in the ebb and flow of the tides.
Salt marshes play a critical role in protecting our coastlines, supporting biodiversity, and contributing to a healthier planet. Here are some of the key benefits of salt marsh conservation:
- Nursery for Wildlife
Salt marshes serve as vital nursery areas for countless species of fish, crustaceans, birds, and other wildlife including Northern Harrier, Least Tern, King Rail, River Herring, Diamondback Terrapin. The shallow, sheltered waters provide safe breeding and feeding grounds for young animals, supporting both local ecosystems and commercial fisheries. - Natural Mosquito Control
A well-functioning salt marsh can help control mosquito populations. Traditionally people have drained marshes with a practice called ‘ditching’ to create salt marsh ‘hay’ for cattle and control mosquito populations. This practice is largely ineffective as mosquito habitat can remain in small pockets but the draining removes habitat from mosquito predators. Predatory species that thrive in the marsh, such as fish and insects, feed on mosquito larvae and help keep their numbers in check naturally. - Protection from Storms and Sea Level Rise
Salt marshes act as natural buffers, absorbing wave energy and reducing the impact of storm surge and flooding. As sea levels rise, healthy marshes can migrate inland and continue to offer protection for coastal communities. Unhindered by development or other interference, salt marshes can continue to provide valuable protection from storms. - Erosion Control
The dense root systems of salt marsh plants help trap sediments and stabilize the soil to reduce erosion along shorelines. This natural reinforcement helps maintain the shape and integrity of the coastline. - Water Quality and Natural Filtration
Salt marshes act like living filters. They trap sediment, absorb excess nutrients, and break down pollutants before they can reach open water, improving water quality and supporting healthier marine habitats. - Carbon Sequestration and Storage
Salt marshes are powerful carbon sinks. They capture and store carbon dioxide in their soils and vegetation, helping to mitigate the effects of climate change by removing greenhouse gases from the atmosphere. Current studies suggest that salt marshes and other coastal wetlands sequester carbon at a rate ten times greater than mature tropical forests and store three to five times more carbon than these forests per equivalent area.
As we face the growing impacts of climate change, sea level rise, and habitat loss, the importance of conserving salt marshes has never been greater. Protecting and restoring these ecosystems means investing in the resilience of our coastlines, the health of our wildlife, and the well-being of our communities.
Let’s work together to ensure that these vibrant, hardworking landscapes continue to thrive for generations to come.
-Julia Ledo, WLT Community Coordinator