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Wetlands: nature’s superheroes

Wetlands are some of the most valuable ecosystems on Earth, yet they are often overlooked or misunderstood. These watery landscapes—ranging from swamps and marshes to estuaries and floodplains—play a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity, filtering water, and protecting against climate change.

If you’ve ever wondered why wetlands matter or how even a small pond in your backyard can make a difference, read on.

What are wetlands?

A wetland is an area where water covers the soil or is present near the surface for most of the year. They can be freshwater, saltwater, or brackish and vary from coastal mangroves to inland billabongs and alpine bogs. In Australia, key wetland types include:

  • Coastal wetlands (e.g., mangroves, salt marshes, estuaries)
  • Inland wetlands (e.g., floodplains, lakes, and peat swamps)
  • Constructed wetlands (e.g., artificial ponds and stormwater treatment areas)

The critical importance of wetlands

1. Water filtration: nature’s kidney

Wetlands act as natural water purifiers, trapping sediments, absorbing pollutants, and breaking down harmful chemicals. They improve water quality by filtering runoff before it reaches rivers, lakes, and oceans (Ramsar Convention, 2023).

2. Biodiversity hotspots

Wetlands support an astonishing variety of life. They provide breeding and feeding grounds for fish, frogs, turtles, insects, and migratory birds. In Australia, wetlands are home to iconic species like the platypus, black swans, and rare waterbirds such as the Australasian bittern (Wetlands Australia, 2023).

3. Climate change resilience

Wetlands act as carbon sinks, storing up to 50 times more carbon than rainforests in their peat and organic matter (CSIRO, 2023). By slowing down floodwaters and buffering coastal areas from storm surges, wetlands also help protect communities from climate disasters.

4. Flood and drought protection

Like giant sponges, wetlands absorb excess rainwater during storms and gradually release it, preventing floods. They also store water during dry periods, reducing the impact of drought (Australian Bureau of Meteorology, 2023).

5. Economic and cultural value

Wetlands support fisheries, tourism, and agriculture. They also hold cultural significance for Indigenous communities, many of whom have relied on wetland ecosystems for thousands of years.

The wetland crisis: what’s happening?

Despite their importance, wetlands are disappearing at an alarming rate. In Australia, over 50% of wetlands have been lost due to urban development, agriculture, pollution, and climate change (Australian Government State of the Environment Report, 2023).

When wetlands are drained, we lose critical habitat, increase flood risks, and release carbon stored for centuries—contributing to climate change.

How digging a pond can help

While large-scale wetland restoration is essential, small backyard efforts can also make a difference. Digging a pond, even a small one, can mimic wetland functions and create a haven for wildlife.

1. Provides habitat for wildlife

A pond attracts frogs, dragonflies, birds, and insects, increasing biodiversity in your garden. Adding native water plants like nardoo, water ribbons, or sedges makes it even more beneficial.

2. Improves water quality

A well-placed pond can capture rainwater and filter out pollutants before they reach local waterways, mimicking the water-cleansing role of natural wetlands.

3. Reduces flooding

A pond or rain garden helps absorb stormwater runoff, reducing the risk of flooding in urban areas.

4. Supports pollinators and beneficial insects

Wetlands and ponds provide nectar and breeding sites for pollinators, supporting local plant life and food production.

5. Creates a cooling microclimate

Water bodies naturally cool the surrounding air, making your garden more comfortable in hot weather.

How to create a mini wetland in your backyard

Step 1: Choose the right spot

Pick a low-lying area that naturally collects water, away from large trees that may drop excess leaves.

Step 2: Dig and shape the pond

  • Depth: A range of depths (30–60 cm) supports different plants and animals.
  • Sloping edges: Gradual slopes allow wildlife to enter and exit safely.

Step 3: Add native plants

Select local aquatic plants to enhance biodiversity and reduce maintenance. Examples include:

  • Water ribbons (Triglochin procera) – Great for shallow edges
  • Nardoo (Marsilea drummondii) – A native aquatic fern
  • Common rush (Juncus usitatus) – Provides shelter for frogs and insects

Learn more here.

Step 4: Avoid chemicals and introduced species

  • No pesticides – These harm beneficial insects and amphibians.
  • No exotic fish – Goldfish and koi can disrupt the ecosystem.

Step 5: Maintain naturally

Let nature take its course! Over time, beneficial bacteria, plants, and wildlife will balance the ecosystem.

Every wetland counts

From vast floodplains to small backyard ponds, every wetland plays a crucial role in protecting our environment. By preserving existing wetlands and creating new ones—no matter how small—we contribute to cleaner water, richer biodiversity, and a healthier planet.

If you have space, consider digging a pond or planting native wetland species to support your local ecosystem. Small actions can have big impacts, helping restore the balance of nature—one wetland at a time.