The 4 Phases of Wetland Restoration

Typically, wetland remediation projects require ample restoration. Careful precautions must also be taken to ensure that the wetlands we work in stay protected. 

When removing impacted sediments, neighboring plants must often be removed and the area must be restored after excavation. There are four phases of wetland restoration: treating invasive species, laying down clean sediment and sand, planting and seeding, and monitoring and maintaining. Each are critical for a safe and successful operation.

1. Treating invasive species

With controlled burning, herbicide, and trimming, the first step in wetland restoration involves the removal of invasive species. Special methods like specific nozzle tips and the modification of spray droplet size ensure that no off-target damage or particle drift occurs to unintended local vegetation. Wind direction, speed, humidity, and temperature all pose threats to the spread of herbicide. Fortunately, by using the aforementioned methods, it’s easy to contain.

2. Laying down clean sediment and sand

As soon as impacted sediments are removed and excavation begins, the wetland restoration process can begin. Starting with the placement of clean, new materials like sand and sediment from borrow sites. These materials are brought in via barge, amphibious equipment, dump trucks, or hydraulically pumped in.

3. Planting and seeding

Once the new material is laid down, the area gets seeded and new vegetation/trees planted quickly. Time is of the essence in order to assure the quickest recovery possible and avoid erosion.

4. Monitoring and maintaining

The contractor, owner, or engineer involved is typically required to monitor the wetland for some time after restoration. This is necessary in order to replace plants that aren’t successful and remove invasive species that come in while the native plants are trying to take root. This maintenance includes mowing, replanting, watering, reseeding, selective herbicide utilization, and more; continuing until the vegetation takes root.

At Stan’s, we offer specialized amphibious equipment for use during the 4 phases of wetland restoration. This equipment is ideal for environments that are too shallow for barges or too unstable for traditional equipment. Contact us today for help with anything from land reclamation to disaster clean up, marsh trenching and excavation, airboat transportation, and more. We proudly offer services nationwide!