Myakka wetlands showcase a filtration system at work

After a short closure due to flooding associated with Hurricane Debby, Myakka River State Park reopened to the public.

As is typical during the rainy season, Myakka's many wetlands continue to act as holding areas for large quantities of surface water. With countless wading birds and American alligators greatly enjoying their expanded wetland habitats, it's an especially magical time to visit the park.

In addition to containing water and supporting biodiversity, wetlands provide another important function. By slowing down the flow of floodwaters, they filter out impurities. 

Especially during heavy rain events, many pollutants, such as soil particles, fertilizers and pesticides, are washed from developed areas and carried overland in watersheds to water bodies. Importantly, floodwaters contained by wetlands get filtered as nutrients are stored and absorbed by plants or microorganisms, while sediment has time to settle. Wetlands are therefore often referred to as "nature's kidneys".

As part of the Myakka River watershed, Myakka's wetlands hold back floodwaters, slowing the rate that water reenters the river channel, where it then flows into Charlotte Harbor. Without Myakka's wetlands, large amounts of impurities would be released directly into the river.

Filtration services by Myakka's wetlands therefore help keep Florida waters healthy for plants and wildlife, and fishable and swimmable for us.

Unfortunately, more than half of the original wetlands area in Florida has been drained, dredged or filled for development. Like most Florida state parks, wetlands at Myakka were impaired prior to acquisition. Recognition of the value and importance of wetland ecosystems led to the creation of laws, regulations, and plans to restore and protect wetlands.

Indeed, at Myakka, maintaining wetlands health and restoring ones impacted by historic ditching is a priority.

There is a limit to how much can be added to a wetland before the natural plant and chemical filtration processes are overloaded and break down. To help protect our natural and human communities, we can avoid over-taxing our wetlands by limiting the use of pollutants (especially fertilizers and pesticides) in areas where they can potentially enter our waterways. And we can support efforts to expand wetlands protections.

Friends of Myakka River exists to support Myakka River State Park and the Wild and Scenic Myakka River. Together, they are protecting and sharing Myakka's Magic, to the benefit of future generations. Follow at @FriendsofMyakkaRiver.