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Implementation of Cost-Effective Wetland & Buffer Restoration Projects for Maximum Waterfowl Habitat Benefits. Kirk Mantay and Scott Reinhart Delaware Bay Regional Biologists Ducks Unlimited. Restoration MUST be based on good science and decision-making.
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Implementation of Cost-Effective Wetland & Buffer Restoration Projects for Maximum Waterfowl Habitat Benefits Kirk Mantay and Scott Reinhart Delaware Bay Regional Biologists Ducks Unlimited
Restoration MUST be based on good science and decision-making • Region-wide planning and targeted delivery areas • Create habitat goals from population objectives (Implementation Plans) Use species specific breeding and wintering data. • As well as layers that are regionally important
Once those things are in place, it’s time to think about: • What Restoration Techniques are Cost Effective relative to your goals, objectives, and budget?
Pre-Construction Management of Restoration Area • Techniques • Often cost-effective
Earthwork (large-scale) Constructing landforms to increase/ enhance wetland habitat
Earthwork (microtopography) • No research results on direct benefits to waterfowl, however; • Increases plant diversity, • Reduces runoff velocity, and • May improve water quality • Cost—high—labor & equipment time
Erosion Control Structures • Biologs, matting, netting • Cost: High • Should be installed by a contractor with previous experience!
Water Level Control • Water control, or hydrologic manipulation, is a key component of most wetland restorations • Misunderstood hydrology has been shown to be the #1 cause of restoration failure
Planting & Seeding • Cost-effective when: • Existing seedbank poor/sparse • Your goals require quick, successful establishment of a specific plant community • You want to “jump start” natural succession • No future site management proposed • High quality plant material is available
Invasive Species Management • Project goals-- • What density of invasive plants is tolerable once the rest of your site is densely vegetated and otherwise “successful?”
Conclusion • Combining Human Action with Natural Features works for Wetland Restoration! • Never forget your design goals! • Just because a technology or method is available or popular does not mean that it will move you toward your habitat goals. • However, many proven methods now exist that can move projects toward their ultimate habitat goals.