Wetland Enhancement Round 2

Encroachment of exotic wetland plants has resulted in profound negative impacts on the populations and diversity of native wildlife and plant species. Refuge staff has determined the Muskrat and St. Francis Pools are optimal sites to continue the restoration and enhancement of wetlands. The sites are an invaded area of mainly hybrid cattails and phragmites. Prescribed fire will be implemented to promote growth of the native plant communities post herbicide treatment. Using adaptive management, the manipulation of water in the basin and the best known combinations of grazing and prescribed fire will be used to determine what treatment creates the most structurally diverse habitats to increase populations of plant and wildlife species on the refuge.