General values - saltmarshes

To a large extent the value of a particular saltmarsh depends on its state in relation to grazing pressure and the level of stability of the marsh itself. However there are certain key attributes, which can be identified for most larger saltmarsh areas:

• In their own right they support a range of plants and animals specially adapted to the rigours of twice daily submergence by sea water, including a number of rarities;
• They form a key component of tidal wetlands - including estuaries and deltas. Taken together these provide habitats for a range of mobile species which range over the land - sea interface;
• They can be significant components in the landscape providing sometimes wild and beautiful places;
• As an economic resource they are used to graze a variety of domestic stock;
• They provide a hunting resource through the waterfowl which graze and roost on the saltmarsh;
• Sea defences (especially sea walls) are protected from wave and storm attack;
• They provide areas for studying ecological succession and geomorphology;
• There is a high level of nature conservation interest.