Forested swamps provide flood protection for the communities in floodplains.
A floodplain is the level area adjacent to an aquatic resource such as stream. In the event of a flood, the floodplain takes on the excess floodwater. Often, these areas contain water-loving, or hydric, soils. Plants in these areas are tolerant of wet soil conditions. Whether or not the floodplains will flood depends upon the topography, geology and other ecological factors. The communities that live in floodplains are at the greatest risk for flooding. Deforestation of these areas increases the risks and consequences of flooding.
Soil Erosion
Trees help protect the communities that live in floodplains by preventing soil erosion. Trees anchor soils in place and stabilize stream banks. Soil erosion results in the loss of topsoil and can compromise crop production. Eroded stream banks can increase the area impacted by flooding caused by spring rains and winter thaw. The aquatic resources become cloudy because of the increase in free-floating sediment. Micro-organisms which form the base of the food chain may die off as a result. The entire ecological community may feel the brunt of deforestation with the removal of this vital link.
Loss of Wetlands
Trees in floodplains are found in a type of wetland called a swamp. Woody vegetation dominates these areas. Deforestation of floodplains results in a loss of these wetlands. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), over 70 percent of the United States forested swamps have been lost. The consequence is a loss of flood protection. Wetlands absorb floodwaters, protecting communities in floodplains. A single acre of wetlands can absorb up to 1.5 million gallons of floodwater that may otherwise flood the floodplain and adversely affect the communities that live there.
Loss of Wildlife Habitat
Forested swamps and other wooded areas of floodplains provide habitat for wildlife. Over one-third of America's threatened and endangered species depend exclusively on wetlands. The presence of forested floodplains is critical for waterfowl such as the wood duck which use these areas. In fact, nearly one half of North American birds will use wetland habitat at some point during their life cycle for food or nesting habitat. For the communities that live in floodplains, the loss of wooded areas can carry economic consequences from the loss of revenue from hunters, birdwatchers and other outdoor enthusiasts. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service estimated that birdwatchers spent $32 billion in 2001, with a significant percentage willing to travel to pursue their hobby.
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