Marshes Once More In 2003, when Iraqi president Saddam Hussein's
regime collapsed, many of the Ma'dan people returned to their
homes and livelihoods, breaking open earthen dams and reflooding
the marshes. Scientists feared that only 15 to 20 percent of the
land would come back to life: The dried, cracked soil was full
of salts, poisons and pollutants and consistent freshwater
supplies remained in question. Surprisingly, the marshes
responded much better than expected. Heavy rains brought more
water than was predicted: By the end of 2006, about 50 percent
of the original wetlands showed signs of recovery. The water
brought with it plant seeds, insect larvae and fish, encouraging
birds to return as well. Marshes Today, Marshes Tomorrow? Many
of the Mesopotamian marshes have responded well to reflooding:
Some wildlife has returned and plants in certain areas are
flourishing. But problems remain. Freshwater supplies are
limited, toxins in the soil may affect vegetation growth and
potential future oil exploration