Restored/Created Wetlands
Description:
In the State of Montana we have lost or degraded a significant proportion of our wetland and riparian resources. To maintain the quality and quantity of our water resources and wildlife resources it is imperative that we begin to restore these degraded habitats to a more natural functioning state. Restored and created wetlands can be accomplished by compensatory wetland mitigation, through federal programs such as the NRCS Wetlands Reserve Program and USFWS programs, private organizations, such as Ducks Unlimited, and various other means.
Function and Values:
Depending on the location and project type of restored and created wetlands they can provide all functions and values commonly associated with other wetland types. For example restored riparian areas have been used to reduce sediment and nutrient loading in streams, and wetland areas have been used to trap and store runoff thus reducing flood magnitudes.
Photos of Restored/Created Wetlands:
Photo by Tom Hinz
"Portion of the restored Odell Spring Creek in the
Madison Valley"
Photo by: Larry Weeks
"Smurfit-Stone Container wetland restoration
project along the Clark Fork River"
Photo By: Larry Urban
Kleinschmidt Creek after MDT restoration,
Blackfoot Valley, Montana
Photo By: Larry Urban
Kleinschmidt Creek prior to restoration by MDT,
Blackfoot Valley, Montana
Distribution Map of Restored/Created Wetlands:
Restored and Created Wetlands are found throughout Montana and in general depend upon need, desire and opportunity. While areas to restore wetland resources are needed throughout the State, currently, the most pressing needs are in the Northeastern and Southeastern sections of the state.
