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Listen to part of a lecture in an environmental science class. The professor is discussing the role of wetlands in flood control. Professor: Today, I want to talk about a natural solution to flooding that often goes overlooked: wetlands. You might think of wetlands as just muddy, mosquito-filled areas, but they actually serve as nature's sponges. When rivers overflow, wetlands absorb excess water, slowing its flow and reducing the peak of floodwaters downstream. This is especially important in coastal areas where storm surges can cause catastrophic flooding. For example, after Hurricane Sandy in 2012, researchers found that coastal wetlands in the northeastern United States prevented over $625 million in direct property damages. Unlike concrete levees or dams, wetlands can adapt to changing conditions, such as sea level rise, by building up soil and vegetation. However, over the past century, we have drained and filled over 50% of the world's wetlands for agriculture and urban development. Restoring these natural buffers is not just about wildlife habitat; it's a cost-effective strategy for protecting human communities. Some cities are now investing in wetland restoration projects, and the results are promising. In the Midwest, restored floodplains have reduced flood peaks by up to 30%. So, as we face more extreme weather due to climate change, we must consider integrating wetlands into our flood management plans.