Over a third of all federally listed rare and endangered species live in or depend upon wetlands. Wetlands also help control flooding, improve water quality and serve as rest stops for migratory birds.
Through the development of new projects, the operation of existing programs, and its regulatory program, the Corps plays a central role in:
- Protecting and preserving existing wetlands
- Restoring degraded wetlands
- Creating new wetlands and
- Enhancing the quality of wetlands.
The Corps is the steward of 12 million acres of lands and waters, including numerous wetland areas across the Nation that provide habitat for fish and wildlife. As a Federal agency with permitting responsibilities for dredge and fill operations, the Corps is also capable of beneficially using dredged material for wetland creation and restoration purposes. Much of the Corps environmental efforts are therefore dedicated to protecting and enhancing vital wetland ecosystems.