Did you know that tidal marshes are amongst the most productive ecosystems on earth? In Maine’s vast and varied landscape, tidal marshes may not appear to be anything special at first glance, but these ecosystems are teeming with life. Sea ducks, migratory shorebirds, striped bass, and shellfish—even baby clams and lobster—all rely on tidal marshes.
Unlike other states on the eastern seaboard, the coast in Maine is fairly undeveloped—this means we still have a chance to make a big difference. And in today’s world, as we work to address climate change, tidal marshes are more important than ever.
this according to Jeremy Gabrielson, Senior Conservation and Community Planner at the Maine Coast Heritage Trust.
And he goes on to explain why, in his email of October 27, 2022:
- Carbon Capture. Marsh grasses absorb gasses like carbon dioxide, pulling them out of the atmosphere, effectively reversing a key consequence of global warming. As marshes grow, they store more carbon per acre than forests!
- Clean Waters. Marshes act as natural purifiers, filtering pollutants out of the water before it flows into nearby streams, rivers, and the ocean. As water moves through the marsh grasses, toxins percolate down into soil. Bivalves living in the marshes also absorb bacteria, heavy metals, and excess nitrogen, removing them from the water.
- Damage Control. As sea levels rise, marshes absorb floodwater like a sponge, buffer storm surges, and protect nearby roads, homes, and properties from destruction. The wetlands also stabilize the soil which helps prevent erosion.
Vist the Maine Coast Heritage Trust and discover how the Trust is (1) Creating more public access to the coast, (2) Making the coast more resilient to climate change, and (3) Helping Maine’s coastal communities thrive.
Picture credit Michasel Ox at Unsplash
