Nature Water, Published online: 01 June 2026; doi:10.1038/s44221-026-00656-3 Wetland conservation is an undervalued strategy for managing flood risk exacerbated by climate change. This study quantifies the impact of wetland loss on flood insurance claims across the USA, revealing a US$10.1 billion increase in claims since 1985. The analysis also highlights regions where conservation benefits outweigh costs, informing land-use policy and insurance pricing.