Dry weather conditions, which were prevalent throughout the United States this summer, allowed wetland restoration projects in northern Michigan to go forward without a hitch.  The dry conditions allowed for high compaction rates on the earthen berms which should minimize any future repairs.  

The Alpena NFWCO Partners for Fish and Wildlife Coordinator (Alpena, MI) was able to complete seven wetland projects on four landowner’s properties during the months of August and September.  A total of 24 acres of wetlands were restored.  Shallow-water wetlands are restored to provide nesting, rearing and refuge habitat for waterfowl. 

These restorations additionally benefit shorebirds, reptiles, amphibians and many other types of wildlife.  Sites are typically located in fallow farm fields, and the earthen berms block farm ditches previously used to drain water off of the property.