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WETLAND RESTORATION AND REMEDIATION IN SOUTHWEST LOUISIANA MARSHES: A STUDY OF SOIL ELEVATION, VERTICAL ACCRETION, SHALLOW SUBSIDENCE AND ROOT ZONE INFLUENCES IN MARSHES RESTORED USING A VARIETY OF TECHNIQUES
Impact/Purpose:
This research program consists of two projects. The main objective of Project 1 is to determine if restored marshes function like natural marshes, while specifically examining the compaction and settling rates of deposited materials, vertical soil accretion, and biological root zone development of the soil profile. This research project studies marsh restoration projects of various ages using dedicated dredged materials.
The main objectives of Project 2 are to: (1) instill an appreciation for wetlands of the area in students; (2) provide the opportunity to use math, science, and public speaking skills in real-life situations; and (3) encourage students to teach what they have learned to others through an outreach forum. A hands-on educational unit will be taught at a local high school.
Description:
For Project 1, we will continue sampling of all restoration sites on a quarterly basis. We also will present findings at the 2003 Society of Wetland Scientists Meeting. We will prepare a final data set for a peer-reviewed journal publication. Below-ground root zone samples still need initial gathering, and this will be accomplished within the next 2 weeks.
For Project 2, we will complete the wetlands course this semester, which ends in December, and also will organize and present the spring festival for primary-aged students.