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Once upon a time, farmers in this country converted wetlands into farmlands by digging ditches to drain the land. This often meant straightening and deepening an existing creek. Wetlands were often viewed as bothersome swamps. Making more farmland by draining wetlands could help a farmer
provide food for family and community.
Unfortunately, so many wetlands were drained (or filled and paved for urban purposes) that today we are feeling the effects of this disappearing natural resource.
Today we know that wetlands are valuable ecosystems that help prevent flooding, filter water, and provide wildlife habitat and recreational opportunities.
For these reasons, some landowners have decided to restore the wetlands that once existed on their properties.
Four adjacent landowners asked the Whatcom Conservation District
for assistance with restoring their wetlands along Campbell Creek.
Their properties were ideally situated for such a project since their farmland was never very productive and, by restoring it to wetlands, it would provide flood protection and improved drainage for adjacent and downstream farm properties.
Together, with other community partners including the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and Drainage Improvement District #17, the Whatcom Conservation District helped:
- create 2,360 feet of new, meandering stream channel
- excavate 25 wetland depressions
- install over 5,000 native plants
- place 43 pieces of large woody debris to provide habitat
The conservation planting project, funded by the Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program, created nine acres of new streamside buffer area.
The ultimate results will be cleaner, cooler water for Campbell Creek, a healthy habitat for salmon and other aquatic wildlife, reduced flooding in downstream areas, and a beautiful natural area for four families to explore and appreciate happily ever after!
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