Learning Objectives:
Consider whether a man made wetland has the same value as a natural wetland of the same size.
Determine if a dollar value can be assigned to wetlands by doing research and assessment of data collected.
We saw in characteristics of wetlands that wetlands are a special combination of hydrology, soil, and plants. Can we alter hydrology to build wetlands? The answer is yes, but…. Altering
hydrology can be a very expensive proposition. Also, one has to look at functions of wetlands. Will the wetland provide multiple functions or just one? Will the wetland have the mix of plants of a natural wetland or only a few? How will the microbes needed in the soil be introduced? Is the wetland being developed for a specific species habitat, or will it support multiple species?
Look first at , then look at the habitat requirements for typical wetland species. Finally, look at a of the park where a marsh was built to replace a swamp destroyed 60 years earlier and compare that to a remnant of the original marsh left in the park. From those facts, you can determine for yourself if wetlands can be built.
If you are interested in getting a certification, complete the project.
