Journal of Student Research 2023

Tamarack Restoration in a Wetland Reserve Property: Comparison with a Natural Reference Site 9 Tamarack Restoration in a Wetland Reserve Property: Comparison with a Natural Reference Site

Kyle Baemert and Christopher Jones 1 Senior, B.S. Environmental Science Faculty Advisors: Dr. Amanda Little and Dr. Keith Gilland

Abstract Wetlands are important ecosystems with high levels of productivity,

biodiversity, and provision of ecosystem services. Recently, wetlands have become a focal point for ecological restoration; however, it is difficult to return a site to its former state once it has become disturbed. Certain tree species like tamarack ( Larix laricina Du Roi) can struggle to re-establish. Information gathered from monitoring active tamarack restoration sites can refine current strategies and better inform re-establishment efforts. In this study, we compared a planted tamarack stand in a restored wetland enrolled in the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Wetland Reserve Program (Downsville Wetland) to a stand of naturally established tamaracks (Muddy Creek Wildlife Area). We expected the Downsville Wetland to have a more homogenous stand structure than Muddy Creek, and that Muddy Creek would have smaller individuals, indicating recruitment to the population. The distribution of tamarack size was wider at Muddy Creek and Muddy Creek had greater species diversity. Consistent standing water throughout Muddy Creek had a negative relationship with tamarack size. Both sites had few individuals with a diameter-at-breast-height (DBH) under 5 cm, which indicates low recruitment. Further monitoring is required to more accurately draw conclusions about each stand’s recruitment rate. Restoration in any context takes time and continued human influences at the Downsville Wetland could impact the restoration timeline. Although the Downsville Wetland does not yet resemble a natural stand like Muddy Creek, its restoration is still worthwhile because it provides many ecosystem services. Keywords: tamarack, Larix laricina, wetlands, restoration, Wetland Reserve Program Introduction Wetlands have declined globally and domestically primarily due to human interference, such as draining, filling, and rerouting the flow of water (Dhal, 1990). Prior to European colonization, it is estimated the United States had nearly 392 million acres of wetlands (Dhal, 1990). In 200 years, from 1780 to 1980, the lower 48 states lost 53% of their wetlands, leaving only 274 million acres intact (Dhal, 1990). European settlers believed wetlands to be an obstacle to productive land use and

1 Christopher Jones is a recipient of a student research grant from UW-Stout’s Office of Research and Sponsored Programs, funded by the Stout University Foundation (Editor).