ABSTRACT
The values and functions of wetlands are now well recognized, as evidenced by public awareness and implementation of national policy to protect and preserve these fragile ecosystems. Economic analysis of various ecosystems suggests that freshwater wetlands and estuaries are more valuable than other ecosystems of the biosphere. The values and functions of wetlands are now well recognized, as evidenced by public awareness and implementation of national policy to protect and preserve these fragile ecosystems. Economic analysis of various ecosystems suggests that freshwater wetlands and estuaries are more valuable than other ecosystems of the biosphere. Defining a wetland is complex and difficult, because many wetlands are transient and have distinct soil moisture conditions ranging from dry to flooded. Although it is relatively easy to describe some wetland properties, difficulty can be encountered when attempts are made to precisely define wetlands, especially in establishing boundaries with adjacent uplands.
