Natural and Constructed Wetlands in Canada: An Overview

Abstract

Abstract A review of freshwater wetland research in Canada was conducted to highlight the importance of these ecosystems and to identify wetland research needs. Both natural and constructed wetland systems are discussed. Natural wetlands are an important part of the Canadian landscape. They provide the habitat for a broad variety of flora and fauna and contribute significantly to the Canadian economy. It is estimated that the total value derived from consumptive and non-consumptive activities exceeds $10 billion annually. The past decades have witnessed the continued loss and degradation of wetlands in Canada. In spite of recent protection, Canadian wetlands remain threatened by anthropogenic activities. This review shows that more research on fate and transport of pollutants from urban and agricultural sources in wetland systems is needed to better protect the health and to assure the sustainability of wetlands in Canada. Furthermore, improved knowledge of hydrology and hydrogeochemistry of wetlands will assure more effective management of these ecosystems. Lastly, better understanding of the effect of climate change on wetlands will result in better protection of these important ecosystems. Constructed wetlands are man-made wetlands used to treat non-point source pollution. The wetland treatment technology capitalizes on the intrinsic water quality amelioration function of wetlands and is emerging as a cost-effective, environmentally friendly method of treating a variety of wastewaters. The use of wetland technology in Canada is, however, less common than in the U.S.A. A number of research needs has to be addressed before the wetland treatment technology can gain widespread acceptance in Canada. This includes research pertaining to cold weather performance, including more monitoring, research on design adaptation and investigation of the effects of constructed wetlands on wildlife.