Which statement best explains what happened to wetland resources and ecosystem services after the 1970s in the US
After the 1970s, there was a significant decline in wetland resources and ecosystem services in the US. This decline can be attributed to various factors, including urbanization and land development, agricultural practices, pollution, drainage for infrastructure development, and the introduction of non-native species.
Urbanization and land development led to the destruction and fragmentation of wetlands as they were drained or filled to make way for housing, roads, and industrial areas. This loss of wetland habitats resulted in a decline in biodiversity and the disruption of ecological processes.
Agricultural practices, particularly the increased use of fertilizers and pesticides, led to water pollution and eutrophication in wetland areas. This pollution not only harmed the wetland plants and animals but also affected the quality of water supplied to humans.
Wetland drainage for infrastructure development, such as the construction of dams and levees, further destroyed wetland ecosystems. Drainage reduced the water retention capacity of wetlands, leading to decreased water availability during dry periods and increased flooding during heavy rainfall events.
Additionally, the introduction of non-native species, such as invasive plants and animals, disrupted the natural balance of wetland ecosystems. These invasive species outcompeted native species for resources, leading to a decline in native biodiversity and altered ecosystem dynamics.
Overall, the combined impact of urbanization, agricultural practices, pollution, drainage, and the introduction of non-native species resulted in a significant loss of wetland resources and a decline in the provision of ecosystem services in the US after the 1970s.
After the 1970s, there were several developments that had an impact on wetland resources and ecosystem services in the US. The best explanation includes the following points:
1. Wetland Loss: Wetlands in the US faced significant loss due to various human activities such as agriculture, urbanization, and land development. Drainage and filling of wetlands for agricultural purposes, as well as the construction of infrastructure like roads, buildings, and cities, led to a decline in wetland areas.
2. Legislation and Regulations: In response to the increasing threat to wetlands, the US government enacted several laws and regulations to protect and restore them. The most notable was the Clean Water Act of 1972, which aimed to control water pollution and regulate actions impacting wetlands.
3. Wetland Restoration and Creation: Efforts were made to restore and create wetland ecosystems, recognizing their importance in providing various ecosystem services. Restoration projects involved re-establishing wetland hydrology and reintroducing native plant and animal species.
4. Conservation Programs: Various conservation programs were implemented to incentivize landowners to preserve wetlands. Examples include the Wetland Reserve Program, which compensates landowners for keeping their wetlands intact, and the Conservation Reserve Program, which incentivizes the conversion of highly erodible land to wetland habitats.
5. Increased Awareness and Research: Increased awareness about the importance of wetlands and the services they provide led to more research and scientific understanding. This led to improved management practices and better decision-making in terms of wetland protection and restoration.
In summary, after the 1970s in the US, wetland resources experienced loss and degradation due to human activities. However, efforts were made through legislation, restoration projects, conservation programs, and increased awareness to protect and restore wetlands and their crucial ecosystem services.