Describes the conditions, trends, availability, quality, & use of the water resources of the U.S., in particular, this volume describes an overlooked water resource -- wetlands. Gives a broad overview of wetland resources & includes discussions of the scientific basis for understanding wetland functions & values; legislation that regulates wetland use; research, inventory, & evaluation; & issues related to the restoration, creation, & recovery of wetlands. Presents more specific information on the wetland resource of each state, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, & several Pacific islands. Color & b&w illustrations with maps, diagrams, photos, & tables.

Aldo Leopold, father of the "land ethic," once said, "The time has come for science to busy itself with the earth itself. The first step is to reconstruct a sample of what we had to begin with." The concept he expressedâ€"restorationâ€"is defined in this comprehensive new volume that examines the prospects for repairing the damage society has done to the nation's aquatic resources: lakes, rivers and streams, and wetlands. Restoration of Aquatic Ecosystems outlines a national strategy for aquatic restoration, with practical recommendations, and features case studies of aquatic restoration activities around the country. The committee examines: Key concepts and techniques used in restoration. Common factors in successful restoration efforts. Threats to the health of the nation's aquatic ecosystems. Approaches to evaluation before, during, and after a restoration project. The emerging specialties of restoration and landscape ecology.