Wetlands are among the most valuable — and most threatened — natural resources in our landscape. These low-lying areas soak up excess water, filter out pollutants, support wildlife, and help protect the health of our lakes, rivers, and groundwater.

In the Snake River Watershed, many wetlands have been drained or altered over time, reducing their ability to function as nature intended. Kanabec SWCD works with landowners to restore, enhance, and protect wetland areas, offering technical guidance and cost-share assistance for qualifying projects.

Why Wetlands Matter

Wetlands provide vital services across the watershed, including:

• Improved water quality by filtering sediment, nutrients, and chemicals
• Flood protection by holding back stormwater and reducing downstream flow
• Groundwater recharge through natural infiltration
• Wildlife habitat for frogs, ducks, birds, pollinators, and other species
• Climate resilience by storing carbon and buffering extreme weather impacts

Even small or seasonal wetlands can make a big difference.

How Wetlands Are Restored or Enhanced

Wetland projects can take many forms, depending on the site and goals. Examples include:

• Breaking or disabling old drainage systems (tiles, ditches) to restore natural hydrology
• Creating depressions or berms to hold and slow water
• Enhancing degraded wetlands with native vegetation
• Connecting fragmented wetland complexes

Our staff works closely with landowners to evaluate options and design projects that are both effective and manageable.

Interested in Improving a Wetland on Your Property?

We provide site visits, project planning, and cost-share funding through programs supported by grants such as our Watershed-Based Implementation Funding (WBIF).

Explore more:

• Wetland Restoration Cost-Share

Let’s work together to bring wetlands back to the landscape.
Contact Kanabec SWCD:
2008 Mahogany Street, Suite 3, Mora, MN 55051
Phone: 320-679-1391
Email: Jaren@KanabecSWCD.org