Wetlands and floodplains, once seen as disease-filled swamps, are now recognized for their critical role in maintaining environmental balance. Awareness of how these natural landscapes support ecosystems, improve water quality, and provide natural flood control has shifted public perception for the better. After years of damage caused by intentional filling or sediment buildup from upstream sources, proper excavation and maintenance are essential to preserve these natural resources and ensure long-term sustainability.

In our restoration projects, Flyway aims to return wetlands to their original condition as closely as possible. While some think wetland restoration is mainly for aesthetic purposes or to help wildlife, another major benefit is flood control. Here’s how it works:

1. Absorption of Excess Water

Wetlands and floodplains act as natural sponges, able to absorb and temporarily hold large amounts of rainwater and runoff. This lessens the volume of water rushing into rivers and streams and reduces the risk of flash floods. The excess water is then slowly released over time, mitigating the effects of drought on nearby areas.

2. Slowing Water Flow

Wetland vegetation like grasses and reeds slow down currents, decreasing the speed at which water is distributed downstream. Wetlands’ meandering pathways and thick vegetation act to impede the rush of floodwaters, potentially reducing devastating damage to surrounding property, ecological harm, and even the loss of human lives.

3. Sediment Trapping

Wetlands trap sediment and debris, preventing the accumulation of materials that can contribute to more severe flooding. Farming practices of the past — including linear plowing, allowing livestock into streams, development on floodplains, and the removal of trees, shrubs, and grass on streambanks — led to levels of erosion that clogged waterways downstream. The removal of wetlands further exacerbated the effects, leading to the loss of nutrients and precious topsoil. Now, with the restoration of wetlands and floodplains, these sediments and their nutrients can be kept within the local ecosystem.

4. Buffering Against Storm Surges

Coastal wetlands have acted as a buffer against storm surges and high tides for millennia, protecting inland areas from severe flood damage. Human interference, mainly in the form of land development, destroyed wetland areas and worsened the impact of hurricanes and severe storms. Restoring these marshlands helps to restore that natural buffer and brings back shellfish, migrating birds, and the natural balance of our coastlines.

5. Reducing Infrastructure Strain

By controlling and slowing floodwaters, wetlands also reduce the pressure on man-made flood defenses such as levees and storm drains. Keeping these defenses from being overwhelmed helps the surrounding communities to stay safe.

Wetlands Are Key to Natural Balance

Restoring wetlands and floodplains brings back their natural balance, helping them to manage excess water while guarding against erosion and drought. Flooding is reduced, and plants, insects, fish, amphibians, birds, and mammals can thrive.

For help with your wetlands or floodplain restoration project, contact Flyway Excavation, and let us put our expertise to work for you and your local ecosystem.