World Wetlands Day: February 2nd, 2011

World Wetlands Day marks the signing of The Convention on Wetlands of International Importance that took place in Ramsar, Iran on February 2, 1971. The goal of this annual international celebration is to raise public awareness of the vital functions wetlands perform and to promote wetland conservation. The theme for World Wetlands Day 2011 is "wetlands and forests - forests for water and wetlands" in cooperation with the United Nations International Year of Forests.

World Wetlands Day provides an excellent opportunity for students and teachers to explore the value of local wetlands and to take action on their behalf. Why Care about the Wetlands?

Habitat
o Wetlands provide the planet’s second most bio-diverse ecosystems.
o Most of the world’s endangered plant and animal species depend on wetlands.
o Many economically-important species thrive in wetlands.

Services- Wetlands provide:
o Flood control
o Freshwater purification
o Groundwater replenishment
o Shoreline stabilization
o Climate change mitigation
o Recreation opportunities
o Employment opportunities

Human Impact
o 90% of Canada’s urban wetlands have been destroyed
o 50% of Canada’s freshwater wetlands have been destroyed
o 65% of Atlantic Canada’s salt marshes have disappeared
o Wetland destruction continues at an alarming rate

Resources 4 Rethinking encourages students and teachers to participate in World Wetlands Day. Top R4R Picks will connect you to some excellent resources to support these efforts.

Other Resources-
Ramsar
Ducks Unlimited Canada