There are many obvious indications of lost wetland functions - increased flooding of lowlands, species that die out, muddy rivers - but other effects are subtle, invisible, or evident only after a long span of time. The atmospheric balance of oxygen, carbon, nitrogen, and sulfur is affected by the efficiency of wetlands. Some wetlands recharge critical but hidden ground water reservoirs.

Physical/Hydrological Functions

Chemical Functions

Biological Functions

Socioeconomic Functions/Benefits

Wetland Function Metaphors