Groundwater Recharge

Many wetlands help recharge underground aquifers that store 97 percent of the worlds unfrozen fresh water. Many Americans rely on groundwater for their drinking water, and recharge is important for ensuring a sustainable supply.

Groundwater resources are in heavy demand for uses beyond potable water. Currently 17 percent of the world's crop land is irrigated, sometimes leading to over pumping of groundwater. This makes the groundwater recharge ability of wetlands especially valuable. A 550,000 acre swamp in Florida has been valued at $25 million per year for its role in storing water and recharging the aquifer.

DU's efforts to restore, enhance and protect wetlands are helping to ensure that these ecosystems retain their capacity to recharge groundwater supplies.

More Wetland Benefits

• Waterfowl Habitat
  
• Recreation
  
• Flood Storage
  
• Groundwater Recharge
  
• Improved Water Quality
  
• Fish Habitat
  
• Biodiversity