Marsh is a type of wetland that is continually flooded with water. Marshes can be found both on the coast or inland. Most of the water present is due to surface water; however, some groundwater also fills this wetland area.
Marshes can be divided into two main categories: non-tidal and tidal.
Non-tidal Marshes:
- Most widely distributed and productive wetlands in North America
- Occur along the boundaries of lakes, streams, rivers and ponds
- Mostly freshwater, but some are brackish or alkaline
- Beneath these wetlands lie highly organic soils
- You might spot cattails, lily pads, reeds, and an array of waterfowl in this wetland
- Alleviate flood damage and filter surface runoff
Tidal Marshes:
- Found along protected coastlines and impacted by ocean tides
- Present along the Gulf of Mexico
- Some are freshwater or brackish, mostly saline
- Provide shelter and nesting sites for migratory fowl
- Covered by smooth cordgrass, spike grass, and salt meadow rush
- Slow down shoreline erosion
CWPPRA 