Define wetland.

A wetland is characterized as an area where the soil is often saturated with water for a significant part of the year. This saturation can lead to unique soil conditions which support specific types of vegetation that are adapted to flooding and standing water, such as grasses, reeds, and certain types of trees. Wetlands can include swamps, marshes, and bogs, and they play crucial ecological roles, including providing habitat for wildlife, filtering pollutants, and helping with flood control.

The definition emphasizes the presence of water and the effect it has on both the soil and vegetation, distinguishing it from other types of land areas. For example, areas without vegetation would not qualify as wetlands, since vegetation is a key feature required for wetlands to exist. Similarly, a dry land area or rocky terrain would lack the moisture content necessary to meet the requirements of a wetland. Wetlands are vital ecosystems, and understanding their definition is crucial for conservation and environmental management efforts.