Ducks Unlimited and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service are working to restore 150 acres of Henderson Marsh at John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge that has experienced historic tidal restrictions and reduced hydraulic connection with Darby Creek, a tributary of the Delaware River. Restoring more natural hydrology to the tidal marsh will be accomplished by constructing new openings in the impoundment dike to reconnect tidally restricted Henderson Marsh and dredging or excavating 13,073 linear feet of new or enhanced tidal channels. These improvements will restore a natural tidal hydrology, improving function and resiliency to 150 acres of tidal freshwater marsh and reestablishing fish passage fish passage
Fish passage is the ability of fish or other aquatic species to move freely throughout their life to find food, reproduce, and complete their natural migration cycles. Millions of barriers to fish passage across the country are fragmenting habitat and leading to species declines. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's National Fish Passage Program is working to reconnect watersheds to benefit both wildlife and people.
Learn more about fish passage to habitat important for several species of migratory fish.
Quick Facts:
Project Status | In Development |
Location | PA, Philadelphia and Delaware |
NFPP Project Funding | $900,000 |
Restoration Techniques | Tidal Dike Enhancement |
Accomplishments | 2.5 Stream Miles Reopened |
Project Partner Lead | Ducks Unlimited |
Primary Species Benefited | American Shad |
The National Fish Passage Program combines technical expertise with a track record of success.
Implemented primarily through the Service's Fish and Wildlife Conservation Offices, the National Fish Passage Program provides financial and technical assistance to partners across the country. Since 1999, the program has worked with over 2,000 local communities, Tribes, and private landowners to remove or bypass over 3,400 barriers to fish passage and reopen access to over 61,000 miles of upstream habitat for fish and other animals. Staff have expertise in fish migration and biology as well as financial, engineering, and planning assistance to communities, Tribes, and landowners to help them remove barriers and restore rivers for the benefit both fish and people.
Fish passage project proposals can be initiated by any individual, organization, government, or agency. However, proposals must be submitted and completed in cooperation with a Fish and Wildlife Conservation Office. (Please note that fish passage projects being used for federal or state compensatory mitigation or required by existing federal or state regulatory programs are not eligible for funding through the National Fish Passage Program.)
CONTACT A FISH PASSAGE COORDINATOR IN YOUR AREA TO GET STARTED.
