1. Robin Melton Wetland
Learning Station
Wetlands Purify Water
Wetlands are like the earth’s kidneys: they naturally clean water that passes through. Wetland
plants consume nutrients that pollute our water—the plants also help control floods and trap
sediment (sand, clay, and soil) that can clog rivers and lakes. Wetlands have
even been used to treat wastewater, acting as a natural sewage treatment plant! !
Wetlands Habitat
Many kinds of waterfowl, amphibians, mammals, and fish benefit from the
wetland habitat. Young fish use the protection of the water plants as a nursery
and local and migratory waterfowl find food in the wetland. Many species of
amphibians live here year round, and spring is especially lively with amphibian
activity. Mammals like raccoons and minks patrol the shores for food, and
beavers and muskrats make the wetlands home.
Invaders Endanger This Wetland
I
Invasive plants are a danger to terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems
a
around the country. An invasive plant is a species of plant that can
t
take over, out-competing most other plants, endangering biodiversity.
I
In this wetland a plant called Reed’s Canary Grass threatens to choke
o
out native grasses and flowers. The Watershed Center staff and
v
volunteers are working to control Reed’s Canary Grass and preserve
o
our wetland habitat.
Try This!
Robin Melton was a friend, board member and Try answering these questions to learn about
supporter of the Watershed Committee of the Ozarks and the wetland!
Watershed Center. Robin enjoyed outdoor sports, • Dip a cup of the water and look very, very
cared for animals and worked tirelessly to clean up the closely. What do you see? Many times you
environment through the business she founded called will find zooplankton. These small crustaceans
Environmental Works Inc. This wetland cleans the water feed on algae and provide food for young fish
and provides for animals, which is a fitting place to and amphibians.
remember a person who did the same. Robin was a true • Can you see any animals using the wetland today?
water warrior and she will be missed. Do you think the animals you see or hear live
the all year, or are they just stopping in?
there
• Do you th
think this wetland was always here, or was it
man mad
made?
• Close your ey and listen to the wetland sounds. Do you
eyes
hear frogs, bir
birds, bugs, or other animal noises?
Signs made possible by a grant from the LAD Foundation