World In Our Backyard

Chapter I: Wetland Science (PDF) (7 pp, 407K)

• What are Wetlands
• The Water Cycle: The Connection Between Wetlands & Watersheds
• Wetland Characteristics: Water, Soil & Plants
• Activities (PDF) (15 pp, 179K)

Chapter II: Wetland Types (PDF) (20 pp, 1.2MB)

• Distinguishing Wetland Types
• Costal Wetlands: Salt Marshes, Tidal Brackish Marshes
• Inland Wetlands: Freshwater Marshes, Wet Meadows, Forested Swamps
• Shrub Swamps, Bogs, Fens, and Vernal Pools
• Guide to Wetland Wildlife in New England Regional Wetland "Celebrities"
• Activities (PDF) (8 pp, 209K)

Chapter III: Wetland Functions (PDF) (6 pp, 293K)

• Flood & Erosion Control
• Fish and Wildlife Habitat & Food Webs
• Wetlands "Supermarket"
• Recreation & Aesthetics
• Activities (PDF) (10 pp, 181K)

Chapter IV: Threats to Wetlands (PDF) (4 pp, 171K)

• A History of Wetland Loss
• How Are Wetlands Lost?
• Consequences of Wetland Loss
• Activities (PDF) (6 pp, 230K)

Chapter V: Find A Wetland to Study & Adopt (PDF) (4 pp, 238K)

• Student-Based Research
• Contact Local Officials & Others
• Look Around You
• Use Maps
• Activities (PDF) (8 pp, 208K)

Chapter VI: A Wetland Field Study (PDF) (5 pp, 380K)

• Using Wetlands as Outdoor Classrooms
• Organize the Field Study
• Securing the Interest of Your Students
• Activities (PDF) (15 pp, 271K)

Chapter VII: Protect Your Wetlands (PDF) (7 pp, 245K)

• Activity 1: Create A Wetlands Awareness Program
• Protecting Wetlands Through The Regulatory Process
• Federal Programs
• State Protection
• Local Protection
• Activities (PDF) (13 pp, 196K)

Chapter VIII How to Adopt a Wetland (PDF) (4 pp, 148K)

• Application for Adopt A Wetland Certificate
• Evaluation Form

Appendix (PDF) (6 pp, 253K)

• Wetland Education Directory
• Wetland Education Resources
• Curricula

Bibliography (PDF) (2 pp, 135K)