Wetland
Wetlands provide habitat and manage stormwater
湿地在人类定居前就已经存在了。到20世纪初，农民们将湿地的水抽干，但收效甚微。上世纪七八十年代，随着校园的发展，CLC重建了湿地，以管理雨水，为动植物提供栖息地。如今，该校园以近50英亩的湿地为特色。
Wetlands can store up to 1.5 million gallons of stormwater per acre. In very large storms they slow the rate at which excess water reaches the sewer system, which is important because that system has volume limits. Green infrastructure treatments, including bioswales and rain gardens, alleviate that pressure and help prevent flooding.
This wetland is filled with small amphibians and reptiles, perfect for feeding the great blue heron. Nearly half of all bird species in North America rely on wetlands for food and nesting.
Plants common to Illinois wetlands include forbs, grasses, sedges and emergent water plants. Look for beautiful blue flag iris, switch grass and marsh marigold.
Benefits of Wetlands
At the College
CLC uses indoor cleaning products formulated without toxic chemicals that contaminate both air and water. We also practice Integrated Pest Management, a process that uses natural solutions for insect and pest control before resorting to chemical treatments.
In the Community
To protect water quality at home, be mindful of what you flush, pour and purchase. Simple cleaning products, such as vinegar and baking soda, are effective and nonpolluting. Food products that are certified organic have been grown without chemicals that degrade the soil or damage water quality.
Around the World
湿地植物过滤地表水污染物，如汽车液和肥料。由湿地滋养的下游河流维持着丰富多样的水生生物;超过三分之一的濒危物种需要湿地的清洁力量才能生存。在伊利诺斯州，像椭圆(贻贝)和斑鸠(鱼)这样的生物生活在受湿地保护的溪流中。