Impacts of wetland restoration on farms
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EmailWetland restoration informational meeting and discussion forum for farmers in southeast Michigan.
When you think of wetlands, what comes to mind? Maybe a low, soggy area at the edge of a field. Maybe it’s a spot you’ve always thought about draining, tiling or turning into something more useful. But what if that wetland is already doing more for your operation than you realize and what if, instead of a forgotten corner, it could actually protect your crops, improve your soil, reduce flooding and even earn you some money?
This June, farmers and landowners in southern Michigan have a unique chance to dig deeper into the role of wetlands on working lands. These natural systems aren’t just home to ducks and frogs; they can have real, measurable benefits for your bottom line and your community.
Wetlands are part of nature’s infrastructure. They slow and absorb water, reducing flood risk during heavy rains and helping recharge groundwater that crops may need during drought. By holding onto that water, wetlands help protect nearby fields from erosion and washouts. They also act as natural filters, trapping nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus before they reach lakes, rivers or drainage ditches. That means cleaner water—not just for downstream communities, but for livestock and irrigation sources on the farm.
For crop producers, clean water can mean better yields. For livestock farmers, it means fewer issues with water quality and the health of animals. But the benefits don’t stop at the gate.
Wetlands also create habitats for pollinators, birds and natural pest predators. That can reduce the need for costly inputs like insecticides or pollination services. And depending on your location and acreage, you may qualify for state or federal conservation payments for protecting or restoring wetland areas. In some cases, landowners also see income through hunting leases or outdoor recreation access, creating a side revenue stream on land that may otherwise sit idle.
Just as importantly, wetlands help improve soil health. By slowing water down and preventing erosion, they protect the valuable topsoil that’s key to long-term productivity. So even if you’re not farming land with a wetland, having one nearby can make farming near it easier, safer and more productive.
You might have questions: What does it take to restore a wetland? What’s the return on investment? How long will it last, and will it affect nearby properties? To answer those questions and more, Michigan State University Extension is hosting two free educational events this June. Experts from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Ducks Unlimited, MSU, and other partners will break down the costs, benefits and management expectations of wetland restoration. They’ll also cover some hot topics—like how wetlands influence deer movement and browsing pressure.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Tuesday, June 17, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the MSU Extension office in Adrian.
- Wednesday, June 18, from 7:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the Smith Kimball Community Room in Clinton.
- Both dates will have similar agendas.
- Meals are included: Dinner Tuesday and breakfast Wednesday.
- Bonus for families: On Tuesday evening, Lenawee County 4-H will offer hands-on activities for kids ages 5-19 while you learn.
Whether you’re considering installing a wetland, have one already, or are just curious about how these systems fit into the future of Michigan farming this is an event worth your time. For more details visit https://events.anr.msu.edu/WetlandsforFarmers/ or call Lenawee County MSU Extension 517-264-5300. Let’s dig deeper into how the landscape can work with your farm, not against it.
