The Dane County Land and Water Resources Department has been working with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and USDA – Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) on developing Wisconsin’s first Agricultural Wetland Mitigation Bank.
Approximately 31 acres of land located in the Cherokee Marsh Wildlife Area will be restored to wetlands and nearby prairie. These wetlands will be part of USDA-NRCS’s Wetland Mitigation Banking Program to help agricultural producers maintain compliance with USDA programs. The DNR received a grant from the NRCS to create and implement Wisconsin’s first Agricultural Mitigation Bank. They are currently seeking consultants to help in the design and construction of this project. Construction of the project will begin in the fall of 2023.
“Wetlands play a vital role in our community’s effort to combat the impacts of climate change. Heavy, rainstorms can lead to flooding and cause runoff into nearby lakes and streams. Preserving and restoring wetlands helps keep the water where it lands” said Dane County Executive Joe Paris. It reduces the impacts of runoff and helps with flooding. We’re also excited to partner with the DNR and NRCS on this project to help the environment and give farmers another tool to keep their operations successful into the future.”
Producers can buy credits from wetland mitigation banks to compensate for the impacts of lost wetlands on their properties. This allows them to maintain conservation compliance and eligibility for USDA programs.
Wetlands are highly productive and important ecosystems that provide many benefits. These include reduced stormwater runoff, flood protection, pollutant removal, and aquatic and wildlife habitat. Whenever possible, Dane County strives to restore and protect these critical resources. This project will provide the benefit of both restoring wetland ecosystems while supporting our agricultural community.
To learn more please visit the project website.
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