Book Sections

How to help amphibians Speak Out Community Green Plans Wetland Restoration
HELP! - Problems and concerns brought to our attention through letters from homeowners.
Wetland tales / Literature
Word Games
Art Activities
Science Activities
Additional Activities

Photo Gallery I Photo Gallery II
Glossary
Appendix

The Problem

Wetlands are one of the most diverse and productive ecosystems on Earth. In southern Ontario alone, research suggests that over 75 % of the presettlement wetlands have been lost due to drainage, filling or habitat alteration.

In southern Ontario, research suggests that over 75% of presettlement wetlands have been lost .

To date, 80­90% of Canada's urban wetlands have been destroyed. This is a huge loss of habitat considering Canada has 24% of all the wetlands on the Earth. In recent years a decline in some amphibian populations around the world has highlighted the need to protect amphibians and the wetlands on which they depend.

With a renewed interest in wetland conservation, many of our larger wetlands are being inventoried and evaluated. Important wetlands are protected. Most temporary wetlands and small ponds are overlooked by the need to devote limited resources to protect large wetlands. It is up to us to recognize that wet areas in our own backyards, when added together, contribute a significant amount of water and wetland habitat to watersheds in our communities. >