“Hydrologic variability is central to the structure and function of Great Lakes coastal wetlands. Wetlands only form where there is sufficient protection from hydrologic energy to allow rooted macrophytes to establish. Where wetlands do establish, hydrologic variability, including waves, long shore currents, flood pulses, and storm surges create distinct plant zonation, while washing away or depositing organic matter in the sediments”. -Burton et. al., 2004
