Which statement best explains what happened to wetland resources and ecosystem services after the 1970s in the U.S.?(1 point)
The statement that best explains what happened to wetland resources and ecosystem services after the 1970s in the U.S. is:
The Wetlands Protection Act was passed in 1970, which led to increased conservation efforts and restoration initiatives for wetlands, resulting in improvements in wetland resources and ecosystem services.
After the 1970s in the U.S., wetland resources and ecosystem services experienced various changes. One of the main factors that influenced these changes was the passage of the Clean Water Act in 1972. This act provided greater protection for wetlands and helped to reduce the loss and degradation of wetland areas. Additionally, the establishment of the National Wetlands Inventory in the late 1970s led to better monitoring and mapping of wetland resources.
However, despite these efforts, wetland loss continued to occur. Wetlands were often drained or filled for agricultural, urban development, and industrial purposes. This conversion of wetlands negatively impacted the ecosystem services provided by wetlands, such as water filtration, flood control, and habitat for wildlife.
Over time, increasing awareness about the importance of wetlands and their benefits led to more conservation initiatives. The establishment of wetland mitigation banking, where developers compensate for wetland loss by creating or restoring wetlands elsewhere, became more common in the 1980s and beyond. This approach aimed to offset the negative impacts of development on wetland resources.
In conclusion, after the 1970s in the U.S., wetland resources and ecosystem services experienced a mix of protection and loss. While efforts such as the Clean Water Act and wetland inventories improved conservation measures, wetland loss due to development still occurred, impacting the ecosystem services provided by wetlands.