Wetland Interpretive Center
Wetland Interpretive Center
The Green Hills RC&D in partnership with the NRCS Wetland Team, the Missouri Department of Conservation, the City of Chillicothe, and numerous local groups and agencies are developing an educational wetland off Highway 36, ½ mile west of the junction of Highway 65. As a result of highway mitigation a 240-acre tract of land is being converted to a designed wetland. Project plans include native vegetation plantings, elevated boardwalks and viewing platforms. The end goal is to develop an interpretive learning center for the local people as well as interstate travelers.
What are Wetlands? Swamps, bogs, sloughs, potholes and marshes – occur in every state in the Nation and vary widely in size, shape and type. Sloughs, potholes and marshes in low-lying areas are most common. A wetland may have standing water year-round or may hold surface water for only part of the year.
The Benefits of Wetland Conservation
**CURRENT UPDATE**
as of April 1, 2004
All wetland mitigation work is completed and the earthwork phase is done. The site is being used by numerous wetland waterfowl species and the local Audubon Society has identified 156 species of birds. Phase II of the project, which includes design of the boardwalks and viewing platforms is also complete. By summer of 2004 the project will move into Phase III where construction of trails, parking and some of the elevated boardwalks will be constructed. The site will meet all ADA requirements for handicap accessibility.
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