World Wetlands Day - 2nd February 2011

Each year in February we celebrate our wetlands.

What is a wetland?
This is an area where the surface soil is temporarily, seasonally or permanently wet. Examples include springs, marshes, swamp forests all the way to estuaries and beaches.


Why should we care about wetlands?

Wetlands help in:
Flood control - by slowing water down
Groundwater replenishment - which helps to give us water in dryer times
Shoreline storm protection - by providing a buffer zone
Water purification - to keep our water clean
Recreation & tourism - wetlands are great for bird watching and relaxing
Reducing the effects of climate change

What can we do?
Each one of us is a consumer and we can make wise choices to look after our unique marine biodiversity. When you make a choice about purchasing fish either from a restaurant, fishmonger or supermarket - text the name of the fish to 079 499 8795 and you will receive an SMS telling you the status of the fish stock and whether you should tuck in, think twice or avoid completely.