Which statement best explains what happened to wetland resources and ecosystem services after the 1970s in the U.S.
The statement that best explains what happened to wetland resources and ecosystem services after the 1970s in the U.S. is:
"Efforts were made to regulate and protect wetlands through legislation and policies, including the Clean Water Act and the establishment of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), leading to a gradual recovery and restoration of wetland resources and the preservation of ecosystem services."
After the 1970s in the U.S., wetland resources and ecosystem services experienced some significant changes. One statement that best explains what happened during this time is the implementation of wetland protection and restoration policies under federal law.
Step 1: Wetland Protection and Restoration Policies Implemented:
After the 1970s, the U.S. government recognized the value of wetland ecosystems and implemented policies to protect and restore them. One notable policy that contributed to wetland protection and restoration efforts is the Clean Water Act (CWA) enacted in 1972. This legislation aimed to restore and maintain the chemical, physical, and biological integrity of the nation's waters, including wetlands.
Step 2: Enhanced Preservation Efforts:
The implementation of the CWA and other wetland protection policies led to increased efforts to preserve wetland resources. Wetland areas were officially designated as protected areas, providing legal framework and support for conserving ecosystems and their services. This helped slow down the conversion of wetlands for development or other purposes, ensuring the preservation of wetland resources.
Step 3: Restoration and Creation of Wetland Ecosystems:
Alongside preservation efforts, the U.S. also focused on wetland restoration and creation projects. These initiatives aimed to rehabilitate degraded wetland areas or create new ones to compensate for lost wetland functions due to human activities. Restoration projects often involved reestablishing hydrological conditions, reintroducing native plant species, and managing invasive species to restore wetland ecosystem services.
Step 4: Increased Understanding of Ecosystem Services:
Another significant development after the 1970s was the increased understanding and recognition of the ecosystem services provided by wetlands. Wetlands were acknowledged for their vital roles in flood control, water purification, shoreline stabilization, habitat provision, and carbon sequestration. This recognition further motivated efforts to protect and restore wetlands to maintain and enhance the ecosystem services they provide.
In summary, after the 1970s in the U.S., wetland resources and ecosystem services experienced changes due to the implementation of wetland protection and restoration policies. These policies aimed to preserve and restore wetland areas, leading to enhanced preservation efforts, restoration projects, and a greater understanding of the ecosystem services provided by wetlands.