Wetlands provide many benefits as a water resource, including flood control, water purification, and wildlife habitat. The Kissimmee River in Florida was straightened in the 1970s, damaging the ecosystem. Since 1992, restoration efforts have attempted to return the river to its natural winding state. Evaluating these management strategies shows both successes in improving water quality and wildlife but also ongoing challenges in completely repairing the damaged system.

1. IB Geography Freshwater Wetland Management Objectives: 1. Describe the role of wetlands as a water resource. 2. Evaluate the effectiveness of the management strategies that have been adopted in Florida USA.

2. Wetlands as a water resource

4. The Kissimmee River