The South Coastal Library in Bethany Beach invites residents and nature enthusiasts to attend “Wetlands 101: A Prized Natural Resource in Delaware,” a free educational lecture presented by the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC). 

The program will take place on Thursday, November 6th, from 10:30 to 11:30am in Meeting Room A.

This event offers attendees an opportunity to learn what wetlands are, how they function, and why they are so critical to both the environment and local communities.

Understanding Delaware’s Wetlands

Wetlands are areas where water meets land, places like marshes, swamps, and tidal flats that act as nature’s filters and buffers. 

In Delaware, they are essential to maintaining water quality, preventing flooding, and supporting wildlife habitats in our area. 

Despite their quiet beauty, these ecosystems are among the most productive and valuable natural resources in the Coastal Delaware region.

During the lecture, attendees will “travel” through Delaware’s diverse landscapes, from coastal marshes to freshwater wetlands, exploring the rich variety of life these environments sustain. 

Experts from DNREC’s Division of Watershed Stewardship will explain how wetlands help:

• Filter pollutants from water before it enters rivers and bays
• Reduce flooding by absorbing excess rain and stormwater
• Provide habitats for fish, birds, and other wildlife
• Support recreation and tourism through their natural beauty and biodiversity

The presentation will also demonstrate how the loss of wetlands impacts communities, ecosystems, and local economies, and why conservation efforts are crucial for Delaware’s future.

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DNREC’s Role in Stewardship and Research

The Division of Watershed Stewardship is responsible for managing and protecting Delaware’s soil, water, and coastal resources through a range of programs focused on environmental health and sustainability. 

The division’s work ensures that natural systems continue to serve both ecological and human needs.

Key initiatives include:

• Watershed Assessment and Management: Oversees the health of surface water resources and implements measures to improve water quality.
• Wetland Monitoring and Assessment: Tracks the condition and function of wetlands while collaborating with universities, non-profits, and other agencies to advance research and restoration efforts.
• Shoreline and Waterway Management: Maintains Delaware’s beaches, waterways, and shorelines to enhance recreation and protect against erosion.
• Sediment and Stormwater Management: Reduces pollution and manages stormwater runoff through monitoring and control programs.
• Drainage and Flooding Projects: Works with landowners and local agencies to improve stormwater flow and reduce flood risks.

Through these programs, DNREC plays a critical role in balancing human activity with environmental preservation, a mission that directly benefits coastal areas like Bethany Beach and its neighboring communities.

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Learning to Protect Local Ecosystems

“Wetlands 101” goes beyond science to offer practical, community-focused insights. Attendees will learn how to identify wetlands on their own property and discover user-friendly online tools that help residents understand how wetlands influence their neighborhoods.

The presentation encourages participants to consider how daily choices and local development can affect these fragile environments. 

By understanding wetlands’ natural functions, Delawareans can make informed decisions that contribute to conservation and climate resilience.

Programs like “Wetlands 101” reflect a growing commitment to environmental education in coastal Delaware, helping residents connect with their surroundings and take part in stewardship efforts that safeguard the region’s natural heritage.

How to Attend

Event details:

• Date: Thursday, November 6th
• Time: 10:30 to 11:30am
• Location: Meeting Room A, South Coastal Library (43 Kent Avenue, Bethany Beach)
• Admission: Free (registration coordinated by DNREC)

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Don’t miss this opportunity to explore the wetlands that make Delaware unique and learn how you can help preserve them for future generations.

Follow our blog for more updates on local educational programs, community events, and conservation initiatives throughout Coastal Delaware!