Skip to Main Content

Environment

Bookmark and Share print small medium large 

HOME / WATER / STREAMS, PONDS, WETLANDS, AND ESTUARIES /


Wetlands


Wetlands are shallow, wet areas that support aquatic plants, such as bulrushes and cattails, as well as shrubs and trees.

Wetlands cover 5% of the surface area of Prince Edward Island. About 20% of PEI's wetlands are salt or tidal marshes. Wetlands are considered to be among the most productive ecosystems on earth. They are common along the edges of bays and estuaries. The remaining 80% are freshwater wetlands. These include open water ponds, marshes, small wet meadows, wooded swamps and bogs. The construction of livestock watering ponds and borrow pits in areas with a high water table has resulted in the recent formation of more wetlands.


Wetlands are important because:.
  • provide habitat for fish and wildlife 
  • form an importantlink in the water cycle by acting as groundwater recharge, discharge, and storage areas
  • act as water purification systems by trapping and breaking down contaminants such as chemicals,organic waste, and sediment
  • act as carbon sinks and help to reduce greenhouse gases
  • stabilize river and coastal shorelines
  • provide recreational opportunities for hunting, fishing, trapping, bird watching, and canoeing 
  • provide food and habitat for commercial fish species


Wetland Conservation Policy 

Fact Sheets 

Water Course, Wetlands and Buffer Zone Activity Permits 
back to top