The west side of the DMZ consists mostly of wetlands. This is also one of the places where there are much human disturbance and forest destruction. So many people are eager to develop this place and as a nature nut, I am concerned. Constructing power plants and embankments are plans which would devastate the wetland ecosystem. Disturbing the habitat of numerous endangered species seems wrong to me. 

Why are these wetlands important? Why should we conserve them? These wetlands are salt-fresh marshes. In other words, this is the place where salt water and fresh water mingle together-brackish water. This creates a unique and diverse ecosystem of creatures that can survive both on saltwater and fresh water.  The sediments that come from the fresh water also accumulates, creating a feeding site for migratory birds. 

The intricate webs of streams and marshes provide habitat for numerous creatures including 67 rare species. The multiple crustaceans and invertebrates support the winter birds during their hibernation. The brackish water ecosystem, as mentioned before, is superb. We could observe shore vegetation such as willows and reeds. Aspens and pussy willows grow on islands. 

The brackish water zone is extremely beautiful in the winter. The lakes are covered with thin ice sheets crashed in the each other, creating a vast landscape of rugged ice sheets. The dead grass and the reeds brushed by the wind makes it more spectacular. Why are people trying to convert these wetlands into something that is worthwhile for investment, for development? 

There have been movements to redefine wealth. GDP does not count the benefits that nature provides. We should include these implicit benefits, that we take for granted so much. Surely, converting the wetland into power plant, a factory site would increase our GDP, but our well-being? I don't know. 

I am sorry for the low resolution. I forgot to take my camera and had to take photos with my cellphone. The wetland is much more astonishing if you see it on site.