Wetlands function as a buffer against storms and store flood waters- providing protection to many coastal communities.  In addition, many coastal areas rely on Louisiana's wetlands for economic survival.  
    
Wetland areas have become increasingly threatened during the past 200 years.  In fact, twenty-two states have lost over 50% of their wetlands do to environmental causes and human interference.  In Louisiana, many salt marshes have begun to turn brown- these are known as Brown Marshes.  Researchers are not yet sure what causes healthy green marsh to turn brown, but it may be related to drought and other stressing environmental conditions.