Water level
What is it? Water level is where the water typically reaches land and is variable throughout the year.
Why is it important? Water levels impact a range of ecosystem functions, but most importantly, wetlands. When water levels are low for long periods, sensitive wetland ecosystems may begin to dry out. Likewise, high water levels can drown highly biodiverse wetland environments.
What does it mean? Many factors influence water levels. Water levels change year to year, working through a ten-year cycle from low to high levels. Water levels can be higher or lower than average due to the direction of the wind. You may also see higher water levels when sampling following a storm.