Wetlands

An EPA study, released in August 1990, indicated that about 680 acres of wetlands remain under the influence of Clinton Lake. About 400 acres of these wetlands are new, developing wetlands, which are found in areas that did not have wetland characteristics prior to construction of the dam. These include the wetlands at the upper end of the lake just above the multipurpose pool elevation on both the Wakarusa River and Rock Creek. About 280 of the 680 acres, located below Clinton Dam, were probably wetlands prior to the construction of Clinton Lake and are now undergoing changes as a result of new water management practices.A portion of the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks managed wildlife area includes the wildlife refuge, located on the Wakarusa arm of the lake. The refuge consists of approximately 500 acres of timber/grassland and 500 acres of water. It is managed as a resting and feeding area for waterfowl. The refuge is closed yearly to all visitors from October 15 to January 15.KDWP also manages the Coblentz marsh complex, located on the Wakarusa River arm. The marsh consists of four cells, each covering approximately 25 surface acres to an average depth of two feet. The marsh functions primarily as a recreational and wildlife habitat resource.

Where feasible, additional wetland development sites will be identified and evaluated by project personnel. Priority for development will be given to those sites which most strongly support the nation’s remaining wetland base, and restore quality wetland habitat in support of the North American Waterfowl Management Plan. When possible, these developments will be incorporated with the Wetland Research Program administered by the Waterways Experiment Station of the Corps of Engineers. Efforts will be made to cultivate cooperative partnerships with other federal and state fish and wildlife agencies, and private conservation organizations.