Are you enjoying the marsh? Despite the fact that in the past the marshes covered very large areas, different human interventions have considerably reduced the surfaces of these habitats, leading to the disappearance of most of their spaces because for many years they have not been given the necessary importance. Today, we are aware of the great benefits they bring to us, such as:
They are spaces of great biodiversity where many species of animals and plants live.
They are fertile spaces where the sediments that drag the river and the tide accumulate, and many living beings find their source of food and their home.
They are of vital importance for migratory birds: in their long migration journeys, they are like service stations where they will find food, water and rest.
They improve soil quality and stability, avoiding the risk of erosion.
They filter the water and help maintain the balance of the aquifer.
They reduce the risk of flooding and help curb the effects of major storms and grasslands.
They improve air quality and absorb greenhouse gases.
They offer an attractive option as leisure spaces and environmental education
They offer people emotional well-being, tranquillity and an excellent opportunity to relate to nature.
In Zarautz, in addition to the marsh of Iñurritza that we are going through, there are two others that, although not protected, harbor a wide variety of habitats and species of interest. We're talking about Irita and Asti. These three wetlands are connected through the Iñurritza and Astierreka rivers, creating a large ecological corridor that allows the displacement of native species, the expansion of their habitat and the increase of their feeding possibilities.
In recent years, the Basque Water Agency URA and the Zarautz City Hall have carried out work to recover and restore the Irita wetland by recovering its surrounding land. The objective has been to guarantee the wealth and state of conservation of these natural values and to improve and strengthen the resilience of the entire ecosystem.
We will soon return to our point of departure. Although the journey is not very long it is clear that this is a very valuable area. How much biodiversity in such a small space! Keep knowing, enjoying and respecting the other corners of the Zarautz Blue Green Ring!
