Integrating Wetland Ecoystem Services into Agriculture

Summary

This project demonstrates how many ecosystem services provided by wetlands, such as enhancing water quality and conserving natural enemies of crop pests, also provide value to farmers.

Situation

Most farmers and the general public in the United States view wetlands negatively, and consider them as “wastelands” to be drained to convert the land into productive uses. However, wetlands are extremely value natural resources. Showing how wetland ecosystem services can be integrated into agricultural practice would be a powerful way to induce farmers to work towards conserving wetland habitats on their farms.

Response

We will show how wetland ecosystem services can be profitably integrated into agricultural practice through a demonstration research project at CAES Iron Horse Farm where croplands interact with an extensive complex of floodplain wetlands.

Impact

To target farmers, the general public, and scientists, we will conduct educational outreach on how wetlands are integrated into agricultural landscapes.

State Issue

Sustainability, Conservation, & the Environment

Details

• Year: 2018
• Geographic Scope: State
• County: Greene
• Program Areas:
  • Agriculture & Natural Resources