Wetland ecosystems are among the most disturbed ecosystems worldwide. Short term effects of these disturbances (e.g. nutrient surplus, habitat fragmentation, climate change) have been studied relatively well. Knowledge on long-term effects, however, is much more scarce. Gathering long-term data requires specific investments for monitoring and the continuous dedication of scientists and practitioners. Analyzing long-term data sets is both challenging and rewarding, because the understanding of wetland dynamics in relation to long-term environmental change is crucial for future wetland management