Back to: Environmental Biology 200 Level
Welcome to class!
Hello amazing learner! Have you ever thought about how important water is in your daily life — from drinking, cooking, and farming to generating electricity? Managing water properly is crucial, especially in a country like Nigeria where some areas face floods while others struggle with drought. Today, we’ll learn about Water Resources Management & Wetland Ecology — how we manage water and protect wetlands for both people and nature.
Water Resources Management & Wetland Ecology
What is Water Resources Management?
Water resources management is the careful planning, development, and use of water resources (rivers, lakes, groundwater, and rainfall) to meet human needs without harming the environment. It ensures that there is enough clean water for drinking, farming, industries, and wildlife.
Importance of Water Resources Management
Provides clean drinking water for communities.
Ensures water is available for agriculture and food production.
Supports industries and energy generation (like hydroelectric dams at Kainji).
Prevents flooding and drought through proper planning.
Protects aquatic life and natural ecosystems.
What are Wetlands?
Wetlands are areas where water covers the soil for most of the year or where the land is soaked with water. Examples of wetlands in Nigeria include the Hadejia-Nguru wetlands in Yobe and the Niger Delta mangroves.
Importance of Wetlands
They act as natural water filters, cleaning dirty water.
Wetlands control floods by absorbing excess rainwater.
They are homes to many fish, birds, and plant species.
Wetlands store carbon and help reduce the effects of climate change.
They provide resources like fish, wood, and medicinal plants for local communities.
Threats to Wetlands in Nigeria
Oil spills and industrial pollution, especially in the Niger Delta.
Overfishing and destruction of mangroves.
Uncontrolled urban development and drainage.
Climate change and rising sea levels.
How to Manage Water Resources and Protect Wetlands
Build dams and reservoirs for water storage and flood control.
Treat wastewater before releasing it into rivers and lakes.
Protect mangroves and plant trees around wetlands.
Use water wisely at home, on farms, and in industries.
Enforce laws that prevent pollution and overuse of water resources.
Summary
- Water resources management is about using water wisely for people and nature.
- Wetlands are vital ecosystems that filter water, prevent floods, and support biodiversity.
- Wetlands face threats like pollution, overfishing, and climate change.
- Protecting wetlands ensures water availability and environmental health.
Evaluation
- What is water resources management?
- Name two wetlands found in Nigeria.
- Mention three importance of wetlands.
- List two ways to protect water resources.
You are doing excellently! By learning about water resources and wetlands, you now know how vital they are for life and how you can help protect them. Keep shining — Afrilearn is proud of your learning journey.