Successful wetland mitigation is determined by
goals and performance standards of a U.S. Army
Corp of Engineers approved mitigation plan. This
study collected and reviewed historical data for a
mitigation site prior to construction to reduce the
cost and risk of mitigation failure. Historical records
were reviewed to evaluate the hydrology, vegetation,
and soils of a drained Carolina bay wetland. Historical
data were obtained from courthouse records,
aerial photographs, personal interviews, the local
Natural Resources Conservation Service, and the
National Railroad Historical Society. Photographs
and interviews indicated there was open water before
drainage, suggesting a potential source of consistent
hydrology. Organic soils subside when influenced
by land clearance, drainage, and agricultural
activities and could result in a water table above the
soil surface once hydrology is restored. Aerial photographs
show that several drainage systems have
existed over the last 90 yr. Soils along the lines of the
earlier drainage ditches and a former railroad line
still show disturbance to depths of 1 m. These areas
of disturbance could affect vegetation establishment.
Records of agricultural practices suggest
higher nutrient levels than those of undisturbed
Carolina bays, indicating that undesired vegetation
could compete with desired vegetation. Historical
information verified that Juniper Bay is a viable
restoration site and identified areas where design
change could help improve chances for success. Similar
historical reviews with other mitigation sites
can help reduce cost and risk through evaluation of
hydrology, soils, and vegetation.
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