Project Narrative:
The primary goal of the project was to demonstrate how
wetlands in agriculturally dominated landscapes can filter
pollutants contained in agricultural runoff and reduce soil erosion
resulting in cleaner lakes, rivers, and streams. Additionally, the
project provided research and educational opportunities, reduced
flood damage, and enhanced wildlife habitat. The wetlands are being
monitored presently for their effectiveness in removing phosphorous
and sediments, thereby improving water quality. The project is
serving as a demonstration in the Maumee River Basin.
The Blue Creek Wetland is a site that supports many educational
sessions and workshops. This site is being utilized by local
universities for research projects. A report, “A Guide to Research
Opportunities,” was produced to help guide research and
environmental improvement at Blue Creek. The site is being monitored
and data on water quality is being collected. In addition, four
quarterly newsletters were created and distributed during the
project.
Project Results:
Environmental Science and Management
- scientific study
Demonstrated how wetlands in agriculturally dominated landscapes
can filter pollutants and reduce erosion.
Report, “A Guide to Research Opportunities,” produced to help guide
research.
- ecological restoration
3 acres of wetlands were restored.
- monitoring, indicators
Water quality is being monitored.
Public Stewardship
- education
Site is utilized by local schools and universities.
Economic Impact
- direct
$7,000–Contractual
$58,789–Leveraged
Partial funding for several university researchers.
- indirect
Reduced flooding.
Enhanced wildlife habitat.
Water quality improvement.
Project Statistics:
Award Amount: FY1992- $20,000
Project Timetable: May 15, 1993 - December 31, 1994
Project Location: Whitehouse, Ohio, located in the Maumee River
Basin which contributes more sediment to Lake Erie than
any other watershed
Great Lakes System: Inland wetland
Culturally, Economically, and/or Biologically significant plants,
animals, and habitats: Part of the Great Black Swamp, Lake Erie
waterfowl habitat
Stressors Impairing the System: Agriculture, development
Partners: Ohio Operating Engineers Apprenticeship Fund, Local
18, The Toledo Edison Company, the Toledo Metropolitan Area Council
of Government, Lucas Soil and Water Conservation District, Toledo
Metroparks, The City of Toledo, Lucas County Engineers, Bowling
Green State University, University of Toledo, Ohio Environmental
Protection Agency , Ohio Department of Natural Resources, USDA,
Natural Resources Conservation Service.
