For years, I have dreamed of restoring the natural wetlands on my property in northern Indiana. My vision has always been to create a landscape that provides high-quality habitat for migratory waterfowl and other native wildlife while restoring the ecological functions that once existed on this land. Although I have the passion and commitment to see this vision realized, I simply do not have the technical knowledge or resources to accomplish a project of this magnitude on my own.  Through the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program, supported by GLRI funding, that dream is finally becoming a reality.

We have begun the first phase of restoring approximately 75 acres of wetlands on my property. In addition to the completed water fowl habitat, restoring these wetlands will improve water quality, enhance groundwater recharge, and contribute to the long-term health of the Great Lakes watershed.

None of this would have been possible without the assistance of GLRI. As a private landowner, having knowledgeable conservation professionals like Jared O’Brien walk alongside me throughout this process has been invaluable.

Conservation is a long-term investment. The benefits of wetland restoration extend far beyond the boundaries of any one property, providing cleaner water, healthier wildlife populations, greater biodiversity, and more resilient landscapes for future generations.  I hope others will have the same opportunity to restore and protect their land for wildlife and future generations.

Sincerely,

Debra M. (Valparaiso, Indiana)