Wetland Restorations

Wetland Restoration - A Photo Essay

Historically, wetland restoration has been the primary focal point for the Partners for Fish and Wildlife program. Of 221 million acres of wetlands that once existed across the United States in the late 1700s, less than half remain today. Also of importance, is the fact that 75 percent of the remaining wetlands are located on privately owned lands. Thus, it is obvious that the Partners for Fish and Wildlife program will continue its efforts in protecting and restoring vital wetland habitats on privately owned lands.

Wetlands are defined in many ways, however, from a restoration perspective, a wetland site must exhibit certain criteria, such as the presence of or the potential for water (hydrology), the presence of hydric (water-loving) soils and the presence of wetland (aquatic) plants. Partners for Fish and Wildlife biologists use these criteria when evaluating potential wetland restoration sites. The program cannot construct deep, open-water ponds such as those utilized for swimming or other non-wildlife related activities. The most productive wetlands are those that have an average depth of about 18 inches and have an approximate ratio of 1:1 (open water:vegetation).

Before restoration - St. Lawrence area

After restoration.

Before restoration - St. Lawrence area

After - restored emergent wetland.

Cayuga County site - before restoration

Cayuga County site - after restoration

Dionondohowa Wetland Restoration Project:

Wetland Restoration Sign

Before restoration begins

After restoration

Restored - close-up showing wildlife