Browsing by Subject "Revegetation"

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    Establishment of Native Sedge Vegetation in Created Wetlands
    (Minnesota Department of Transportation, 1999-02) Budelsky, Rachel A.; Cushing, Edward J.; Galatowitsch, Susan M.
    This report presents the results of a four-year study on techniques for revegetation of native sedges in created basins. Although often the dominant genus in shallow wetlands, sedges (Carex spp.) do not readily recolonize after restoration or creation of the water table. It is unlikely that sedges will naturally establish in created wetlands. The results of seed germination studies on five Carex species suggest the highest germination rates in fresh seeds - with one exception. Wet/cold storage also can prolong seed viability for at least two-and-a-half years. Dry storage is not recommended for wetland sedge seeds. Short-term wet/cold treatment after prolonged dry storage does not improve germination rates. Sensitive to deep water, rising water levels, and competition during the establishment year, seedlings grew well across a wide range of water depths in subsequent growing seasons. Both species outcompeted annual weeds within two to three growing seasons, but not Phalaris arundinacea (reed canary grass). The study recommends weed control during the establishment year to prevent the invasion of P. arundinacea. Wetland soil promotes seedling growth relative to other soils, but does not affect germination rates. Because of the potential for the introduction of undesirable weeds, the study does not recommend the use of donor wetland soil. Instead, study results suggest the potential for the use of organic top-dressings.
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    Factors Affecting Biological Recovery of Wetland Restorations
    (Minnesota Department of Transportation, 1999-06) Galatowitsch, Susan M.; Lehtinen, Rich; Budelsky, Rachel; Whited, Diane; Mulhouse, John; Tester, John; Capistrant, Anne
    This report describes a long-term study to monitor and evaluate the ecosystem recovery of seven wetland restorations in south central Minnesota. The study looks at the impact of planting on wetland restoration success in inland wetlands and develops a methodology to assess wetland restoration success. The study focused on the following question: To what extent can revegetation stimulate overall biological recovery in isolated restoration sites? Researchers used aspects of ecosystem function and structure to characterize recovery rates in planted and unplanted restored sites relative to one another and to reference wetlands, as well as indices of biotic integrity for plants, invertebrates, birds, and amphibians in addition to other indicators of ecosystem structure, such as soil organic matter and water chemistry. Researchers developed field protocols, created biotic indices, and established baseline monitoring on each site including an as-built topographic survey, installation of groundwater and surface water stations, characterization of soils, vegetation, and vertebrates. A long-term monitoring system is now in place that will allow for the assessment of ecosystem recovery of seven restored wetlands relative to four reference wetlands.