Wetland Restoration

What is a Wetland Restoration?

Wetland Restorations are incredibly effective conservation practices because of the multifunctional values they provide. They protect water quality by removing sediment and nutrients from runoff AND provide habitat for a multitude of wildlife.

Restorations may include construction of berms, excavation for ponds or the destruction of tile line or drainage ditch functions to create conditions suitable for wetland vegetation. Click to enlarge example photos below.

wetland scrape during constructionwater control structure being installedseeded and mulched wetland berm after constructionwetland restoration one year after constructionwetland scrapebermed wetland with tile spillwayestablished wetland


Wetland Restoration Demonstration at the James P Coughlin Center
Coughlin Community Natural Area, Installed: 1998
360° Drone View of Site: September 2023

This constructed wetland was developed to act as a natural wetland and storm water management pond. The pond takes runoff from the Coughlin Center building and parking lots through underground pipes and drainage ditches. Water is collected in the pond and then directed into a natural prairie area through a spillway. This area provides natural filtration for storm water runoff, habitat for wildlife and a demonstration area for landowners or students to see conservation practices in action. This 360° drone image shows the wetland area approximately 25 years after initial installation.

A nature trail and observation berm allow visitors to explore the Coughlin Community Natural Area adjacent to the wetland restoration.