Wetlands Ecosystem Restoration Project

This multi-faceted ecosystem project done in coordination with the Army Corps of Engineers is composed of a wetland restoration, featuring native trees, shrubs, grasses and wildflower revegetation. Well water from a local aquifer provide, the water supply for the central wetland. Compatible recreational elements are a part of the project, consisting of walkways, seating areas and interpretive displays. Ecosystem highlights include 0.2 acres of emergent wetlands, 1.3 acres of bottomland hardwood trees and shrubs, 3 acres of native grasslands and forbs, plus preservation of 0.2 acres of existing trees.

The forested portion of the restored habitat includes pine oak, bur oak, pecan, american elm, black gum, green ash, silver maple and gray dogwood. The pre-existing trees on the site consist of cottonwood, willow and box elder.

The prairie portion of the restored habitat contains planted prairie grasses and forbs. Some of the grass species included are little bluestem, prairie drop-seed, sweet grass and buffalo grass; plants include milkweeds, blazing stars, asters new jersey tea and sunflowers.

Overall this Wetlands Ecosystem Restoration has been an additional $1.3 million investment along the Riverfront Heritage Trail and serves as a signature project for the Port Authority vision for the area.