Environment

ECOLOGICALLY BASED In addition to the aesthetic beauty that the green corridor and wetland system will bring to the community, it will also provide numerous recreational, social and educational opportunities. Even more important, however, are the ecological benefits that this system will bring to our community. Wetlands act as purifiers; native wetland plants will help filter impurities and pollutants from runoff water before they can enter the larger water system, keeping our water clean and safe for our health and enjoyment. The wetland will also provide a more economical and sustainable means of dealing with site drainage. The wetland will store site runoff, slowly allowing it to percolate into the ground and into the larger watershed system. Finally, the wetland and green corridor system will provide habitat for a diverse range of plant and animal species, enhancing our outdoor experience and enjoyment of our community.

HEALTHY WETLANDS HELP TO FILTER IMPURITIES, REDUCE FLOODING, RECHARGE GROUNDWATER AND PROVIDE HABITAT FOR MANY PLANTS & ANIMALS.

Wetlands are Purifiers
Water is purified as it travels through a wetland system. Wetland plants slow water flow and impede the movement of many sediments downstream. Toxic chemicals suspended in open water are exposed to sunlight and broken down. Excess nitrogen is removed by natural bacteria while phosphorous is absorbed and stored by wetland plants. Wetlands regulate water flow a watershed with a healthy network of wetlands will store runoff from rain storms and snow melt making flooding and stream bank erosion less likely. Once stored, some water will percolate into the ground where it may be tapped as clean well water. Wetlands are a Source of Biological Diversity Healthy wetlands support more than just cattails. Many species of rush, grass, sedge and even showy flowering plants inhabit wetlands; submergent and floating leaved plants provide added diversity. A combination of open water and vegetation provides a rich source of food and cover for wildlife, including marsh wrens, muskrats, mallards and mayflies. In Manitoba, marshes provide habitat for over 25 species of mammals, almost 300 species of birds, several species of reptiles and amphibians, and innumerable small invertebrates.

Wetland Management
Natural wetlands fluctuate in depth from spring to fall and in times of drought may completely dry out. Dry periods, and even drought, are a critical part of wetland rejuvenation. Prolonged high water causes wetlands to stagnate as tall vegetation is flooded and dies off. Fewer plants reduces the quality of wildlife habitat and limits the 'cleaning' properties of wetlands. Conversely, during dry periods, the seeds of wetland plants begin to germinate on the exposed mudflats and, once established, persist when water levels are restored. These wetlands are living systems and will be managed to mimic this natural 'wet-dry' cycle. This will help maintain the plant communities and the many benefits that they provide. Native Plant Solutions (NPS) is a for-profit business venture established by Ducks Unlimited Canada about three years ago. NPS devises native revegetation strategies on areas ranging in size from 1 to 1,000 acres. Typically, the smaller acreages are found in urban settings. NPS staff draws upon its extensive expertise with nearly fifty years of hands-on wetland experience. With this experience, NPS is as a leader in the area of native plantings and shoreline revegetation.