Page 58 - 2003 DT 12 Issues

Wetlands Until recently, the role of wetlands teer opportunities at the Canyon as well
in water purification and contaminant re- as upcoming events needing member sup-
ithin the last two decades, glo- duction has been underestimated. With port. Ranger Jim Cribbs, Volunteer
bal wetlands loss has become increasing concern over the effects of Coordinator, manages events. Ranger
Wa hot topic. Environmental- pollution on the nation’s water supply, Scott Bahan, Assistant Volunteer Coor-
ists, biologists, and water quality experts scientists and some government officials dinator, manages the in-house projects.
have long warned that the swamps, bogs, are recognizing the remarkable capacity ❐ The Operational Handbook is
fens and marshes disappearing at an un- of many types of wetlands to filter even nearing completion.
precedented rate are critical to the health heavily degraded water in a relatively ❐ Friends will again provide lunch
of ecosystems and even human popula- short time. Sewage, suspended solids, for the Congressional aide bus tour of Red
tions. biological and bacterial pathogens, Rock.
Public attention on the issue chemical toxins, metals, and salts are BLM Report:
prompted the passage of The Emergency taken up by plants and removed from the ❐ An interpretive docent’s guide on
Wetlands Resources Act of 1986, whose flow, returning clean water to rivers, various Red Rock topics is in progress
stated goal of “no net loss” in wetlands lakes, streams, and aquifers. by the Visitor Center staff.
has yet to be met. Less than half of the Researchers at the University of Mis- ❐ BLM will provide media training
over 220 million acres of wetlands in the souri have recently created an artificial for Speakers bureau volunteers.
United States existing in wetland near a mine and
the 1600s remained as of smelter plant in southeastern
1994, according to a report Missouri to remove lead, zinc Quarterly Meeting and Election
by the U.S. Environmental and other toxins from the
Protection Agency. plant’s wastewater. The ark your hoss in the parking cor-
Wetlands are major project mimics the chemical ral and mosey on up to the outdoor
cogs in Mother Nature’s reactions that occur in natural Ppavilion for vittles and such on
engineering. They provide wetlands. Metals recovered Saturday, August 23, at Red Rock Can-
water storage and ground from the filtering process may yon. Be sure to wear your Western duds,
water recharge; aid in eventually be recycled, an eco- jewelry, belt buckles, or boots, etc. to be
flood and coastal erosion control; deliver nomic benefit to the company. eligible for prize drawings. Eastern city
important harvests of fish, shellfish, tim- Still, the goal of “no net loss” is far folk will wash the dishes! We’ll be serv-
ber, and many other products, including from assured. While many local govern- ing barbeque shredded meat sandwiches,
some medicines. More importantly, they ments are beginning to realize the value beans and other fixin’s. (Bring your own
remove atmospheric carbon dioxide, of their wetland assets, the drive for eco- toothpick.) Festivities begin at 5:30 p.m.
burying it in plant matter and peat. nomic development continues to weaken Set-up and take-down assistance is
Wetlands are vital to the survival of survival odds with legislation that may needed.
many plant and animal species. Their limit water quality protection at federal This will be the final business
contribution to biodiversity cannot be levels. But don’t bet against Mother Na- meeting of the fiscal year. Get the latest
underestimated because wetlands are so ture . . . she always gets even—one way information on Red Rock, new volunteer
varied in their environments—coastal or another. opportunities, and upcoming events.
(tidal) mainly saltwater; inland (non- Members will vote on the Friends Bud-
tidal) freshwater. They are found in July Board Notes: get Proposal for 2003-2004.
forests, floodplains, prairies, meadows, An election for the Board of Direc-
and other habitats in all 50 states. Their ❐ A motion to employ a new tors will be held for open positions. The
value to wildlife is well known, recently website developer was unanimously slate of candidates for open two-year
highlighted by the plight of the Florida passed. positions is as follows:
Everglades, which continues to struggle ❐ The first set of Interpretive Way- Treasurer: Helen Barrett—a former
for survival against economic develop- side Signs has been installed. The next banking executive and currently treasurer
ment. However, it is their contribution to phase will be installed by October. of the Red Rock Canyon Interpretive
water quality that may give wetlands a ❐ A letter was sent to local Assn.
fighting chance. members with information about volun- Secretary: Laura White

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