What are ephemeral wetlands?

Definition: The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) defines ephemeral wetlands as depressional wetlands that temporarily hold water, usually in the spring and early summer or after heavy rains. Periodically, these wetlands dry, often in mid to late summer. They may be isolated without a permanent inlet or outlet, but may overflow during times of high water.

About Ephemeral Wetlands: Ephemeral wetlands are wetlands that are intermittently or temporarily saturated with water, and typically occur in areas where water tables fluctuate or where there is a seasonal variation in water flow. In Hawaii, ephemeral wetlands are important because they are a unique habitat type that supports a diverse array of plant and animal species, many of which are found nowhere else in the world.
Ephemeral Wetland between Pi’ikea park and Yee’s Orchard.

Ephemeral wetlands in Hawaii provide important habitats for a wide variety of plant and animal species, many of which are rare or endangered. They also play important roles in maintaining water quality, controlling erosion, and supporting cultural activities.

Ephemeral wetlands in Hawaii are home to a diverse array of plant and animal species, many of which are unique to these wetlands. The study also found that ephemeral wetlands play important roles in maintaining water quality, controlling erosion, and supporting cultural and recreational activities.

Ephemeral wetlands in Hawaii as unique and valuable habitats that support a wide variety of plant and animal species and play important roles in maintaining ecosystem services. These wetlands are also considered an important resource that needs to be protected and managed properly.