Includes bibliographical references (pages 223-232) and index.

Introduction -- Ages of drainage -- Why they pulled the plug -- Ditching for dollars -- Plowing to drain -- Sticks and stones -- Miles of tiles -- Massive machines and plastic drain lines -- Filling and leveling -- Wetland drainage stories -- Vestiges of wetlands long past -- Building and restoration -- Building wetlands on dry land -- Building wetlands on wet land -- Highways and waterways -- Do waders come in size 4? -- Flourishing flora -- Fixing failed wetlands -- Finding funding. "A detailed analysis of wetlands management, Wetland Drainage, Restoration, and Repair is a comprehensive guide to the past, present, and future of wetland recovery in the United States. The book includes a historical overview of wetland destruction and repair over the past two hundred years and also serves as a unique resource for anyone, from novice to engineer, interested in the process of wetland restoration." "Author Thomas R. Biebighauser draws from his own experience in building and repairing more than 950 wetlands across North America. Included are numerous photographs and case studies that highlight successes of past projects. Detailed, step-by-step instructions guide the reader through the planning and implementation of each restoration action. Biebighauser also provides a number of effective strategies for initiating and improving funding for wetlands programs. Wetland Drainage, Restoration, and Repair is essential reading for all who care about these important ecosystems."--Jacket.