Habitat View
| Habitat | Acres | Miles | Feet |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tidal Wetlands | 96.50 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| TOTAL | 96.50 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Habitat Restoration & Protection Database
Project Details
Lower Connecticut River Marshes - Great Island & Upper Island Restoration
Project Name
Lower Connecticut River Marshes - Great Island & Upper Island Restoration
City/Town/Village
Old Lyme
Site Name
Great Island and Upper Island
Waterbody
Black Hall River
Connecticut River
Duck River
Degradation Description
The primary cause of habitat degradation has been the gradual but progressive invasion by the non-native haplotype of common reed (Phragmites australis) into these brackish marshes since the 1950s. These marshes were ditched for mosquito control purposes in 1929 and 1930. Ditching caused the loss of surface pools and ponds that are vital to wildlife such as waterfowl, wading birds and shorebirds. Ditching can also lead to reduced soil salinities, which can promote colonization by Phragmites. Other species of plants had been out-competed by Phragmites and were nearly eliminated from the marsh system.
Cause of Degradation
Draining / Mosquito Ditching
Invasive Species - vegetation
Mowing
Restoration Technique
Creek/Channel Construction
Ditch Filling
Ditch Modification
Ditch Plugging
Invasive Species Control - Vegetation
Mowing / mulching
Phragmites Control
Tidal Flow Restoration
Project Partners
Partners Organization
Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection - Wildlife Division
Partners Organization
Connecticut Audubon Society
Partners Organization
Connecticut Waterfowl Association
Partners Organization
Connecticut Duck Stamp Program
Partners Organization
Ducks Unlimited
Partners Organization
Northeast Utilities
Partners Organization
United States Fish and Wildlife Service - Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge
Partners Organization
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration - Restoration Center
Partners Organization
North American Waterfowl Management Program
Completed