In Chapter 11 I read about the different water systems in New Jersey, specifically the rivers, streams, wetlands, and vernal pools. Water is such a huge part of life, and is essential for the survival of all living things. Unfortunately, this water is being threatened and has been threatened for years now due to pollution, forest destruction, and encroachment by housing developments. In the past there have been tests done on these rivers and streams to test for contaminants and the health of the species living there, but it was described to be lacking greatly. They only tested the parts of the rivers right by developments and not the rest of the rivers which are also affected by pollution since it is taken down stream. As a result Belton helped to fill in these gaps of information to determine the true health of the rivers, from the headwaters to the river basins. One thing I learned about rivers is there are different categories they are placed in depending on how many streams or smaller rivers empty into it. They go from first-order streams to the largest being fourth or fifth-order streams.
I also learned the importance of wetlands and vernal pools. I knew a lot of species lived there, but I did not realize how essential there are to these species and the health of the water systems in general. I liked when Belton said "These sensitive ecosystems act as filtering kidneys to a waterway, as shelter for the numerous wildfowl and game that live along the fertile edge, and as nursery areas for the thousands of species of fish, salamanders, and aquatic insects that spawn in their secluded pools and rivulets" (199). I find it so interesting when things in nature are compared to our biological systems, like our organs or immune systems. It makes nature feel more alive and connected to us. It is so sad, though, that so many of these wetlands and salt water marshes are being destroyed because they are not aesthetically pleasing to the builders who want to make money selling homes there. The animals already made their homes in these places first, and they think it is beautiful - which it is.
I have wetlands in the back of my home which is partially owned by the town. My mom had told me that builders have tried many times to build on this land and create large housing complexes. But, the townspeople fought back and did not allow them to build there. It should be protected and allow the animals that live there to stay because if they are kicked out where are they supposed to go? So many other forested areas have already been destroyed.