Wetlands function like natural tubs or sponges, storing water and slowly releasing it. This process slows the water’s momentum and erosive potential, reducing flood heights, and allows the ground water to recharge. This contributes to a base flow to surface water systems, during dry periods. Although a small wetland might not store much water, a network of many small wetlands can store an enormous amount of water. The ability of wetlands to store floodwaters, reduces the risk of costly property damage and loss of life-benefits that have economic value to us. For example, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers found that protecting wetlands along the Charles River in Boston, Massachusetts, saved $17 million in potential flood damage.