A wetland restoration project aims to conserve and grow biodiversity in a patch of marshland east of Cranbrook.
Mayook Marsh, located in an oxbow of the Kootenay River, is a patch of wetland that many vulnerable and endangered species call home.
“It’s home to Western Painted Turtles, Columbia Spotted Frogs, migratory songbirds, elk, bats, and even rare bird species like Lewis’s Woodpecker and Bank Swallow,” said Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC).
The organization led a restoration project aimed at replacing outdated water control infrastructure built in the 1970s, posing a risk to the ecosystem and the species in it.
“Native vegetation was planted, drainage improved, and wildlife were carefully protected and relocated during construction,” said Ducks Unlimited officials.
“The result is a healthier, more climate-resilient marsh that will continue to reduce downstream flooding, store carbon, and provide habitat for decades to come.”
The new water infrastructure will retain water during spring runoff and drought, ensuring the wetlands stay wet.
“We knew this marsh was worth reinvesting in. This rebuild guarantees the home of many species is safe for at least another 30 years,” said Kasey McKenzie, conservation program specialist with DUC.
James Paterson, DUC Research Scientist, says Mayook Marsh is located in an area that is otherwise dry.
“Wetlands provide lots of habitat for species that rely on water sources, but they’re also hotspots where many species occur in the area,” said Paterson.
“Globally, almost 50 per cent of all species rely on wetlands for some part of their life. They’re particularly powerful for conserving biodiversity in a small space, so that’s why keeping them for future generations is so important.”
Humans also benefit from healthy, thriving wetlands.
“They help put carbon in the ground, so they’re a natural climate change solution, and they’re like nature’s kidneys by helping to filter our drinking water,” said Paterson.
Paterson says the project was completed in time for World Turtle Day on May 23.
“This particular marsh has a high population of Western Painted Turtles, which are British Columbia’s only native turtle species, so it’s a particularly important place for these turtles,” said Paterson.
“Turtles in Canada and across the world are facing a lot of threats, including habitat loss, loss of their wetland homes. So this project is particularly important in providing a stable home for these turtles.”
DUC will continue monitoring the site to keep tabs on the wetland’s health and ensure the new infrastructure is working properly.
“The project was several years in the making, with input from biologists, engineers, environmental and archaeological consultants, and First Nation representatives. The restoration project was funded by several partners, including US Fish and Wildlife Service, Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation, BC Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship.
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