Study

Comparison of wetland structural characteristics between created and natural salt marshes in southwest Louisiana, USA

  • Published source details Edwards K.R. & Proffitt C.E. (2003) Comparison of wetland structural characteristics between created and natural salt marshes in southwest Louisiana, USA. Wetlands, 23, 344-356.

Actions

This study is summarised as evidence for the following.

Action Category

Deposit soil/sediment to form physical structure of brackish/salt marshes

Action Link
Marsh and Swamp Conservation
  1. Deposit soil/sediment to form physical structure of brackish/salt marshes

    A replicated, site comparison study in 1997–2002 on the coastal plain of Louisiana, USA (Edwards & Proffitt 2003) found that four areas of deposited sediment had developed salt marsh plant communities, although the precise community – and its similarity to natural marshes – depended on elevation. Statistical significance was not assessed. Two areas of deposited sediment had developed similar plant communities to nearby natural salt marshes, dominated by smooth cordgrass Spartina alterniflora, within 4–17 years. In a third area, the community was developing in a similar direction by the third year after creation. A fourth area had developed a different plant community to the other created and natural marshes after eight years. This wetland was dominated by herbs characteristic of its higher elevation. All data were reported as graphical analyses. Methods: Between 1983 and 1999, dredged sediment was pumped into open water areas to create four bare islands (40–200 ha). In 1997, 2000 and 2002, vegetation was surveyed on the sediment deposits and in three nearby natural wetlands. Plant species and cover were recorded along 3–7 transects/site/year.

    (Summarised by: Nigel Taylor)

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