Waterscape - Gulf Islands

Water for Ecosystems

Nature needs water too!
Stream-side forests protect streams.
  • Groundwater recharge
  • Water filtration
  • Wildlife corridor
  • Shade cools stream water
  • Wildlife habitat
  • Erosion control
  • Salmon habitat
  • Water filtration
Can nature run short of water too?
Streams and wetlands can be damaged by human activities that reduce natural water flow.
How wetlands work
  • Bacteria break down contaminants
  • Contaminants and sediment are filtered
  • Wildlife habitat
  • Cleaner water outflow
  • Slow release of stored water
  • Groundwater infiltration
  • Saturated soil stores water
Be careful! 
  • Over-pumping of groundwater wells can reduce vital springs that maintain stream flow and wetlands through the summer.
Waterscapes: