The Importance of Wetlands and Riparian Areas

Wetlands and riparian areas are important for several reasons. They serve as a habitat for plants and animals that can't be found elsewhere in the valley. This creation of habitat provides for passive recreation such as bird watching and photography. These habitats also provide aesthetic value by enhancing the surrounding landscape and serve as natural outdoor classrooms that provide opportunities for researchers and educators.

Wetlands help provide water quality polishing. These habitats in Las Vegas Wash serve as a natural filter for water as it travels toward Lake Mead. Water from the Valley, especially urban runoff, picks up fertilizer residue, oil and grease from the streets and other contaminants as it makes its way to the Wash. Vegetation such as cattails, bulrush, and reeds help reduce the amount of urban pollutants in the stream. Therefore, a reduction in wetlands means a reduction in water quality polishing.

These areas can also absorb large volumes of water during storm events and slowly release it to the surrounding surface. By absorbing water and decreasing the rate of flow, these zones can help prevent property damage to the surrounding environment. This function is very similar to a sponge.

Finally, wetlands and riparian areas decrease erosion by binding soils together and promoting land stability. They provide natural buffers for banks by absorbing the impacts of fast moving water. Those of us who call Southern Nevada home have a responsibility to stabilize the wash, allowing the re-creation and enhancement of these habitats. Part of that responsibility also includes protecting the water quality of Lake Mead. That means managing the Las Vegas Wash responsibly.