Dora Lake WMA - Wetland Restoration

The proposed project will restore the hydrology to 21 wetlands for a total of approximately 35 acres. This project consists of drain tile cap/break, ditch plugs, and wetland scrapes for sediment. The Dora Lake WMA was established in fall of 2011. Dora Lake WMA?s acquisition was part of a broader program, Cannon River Headwaters Habitat Complex program, to create a natural buffer to the headwaters of the Cannon River and enhance water quality in the watershed. This proposed project will promote increased sediment and nutrient entrapment from the Cannon River, increased flood water attenuation in the watershed, increased water storage capacities, and restoration of wetland wildlife habitat. Wetlands restored on the tract vary from temporary wetlands to seasonal wetlands. Dora Lake is less than a mile from the WMA. Many diver and dabbling ducks are seen on Dora Lake and by restoring the wetlands on the adjacent Dora Lake WMA will provide more habitat and areas for nesting waterfowl species. In the surrounding area, there are three other WMA?s in the area and over 100 acres of lands in conservation easements.