Description: This course introduces the basics of wetland creation and restoration for mitigation of lost wetlands or wildlife habitat creation, i.e., "mitigation wetlands." Course will emphasize proper landscape approaches and working with site hydrology. Case studies from Florida and several other locations in the USA will be used to illustrate principles. Wetlands in southwest Florida will be visited in field trips to show different approaches for constructing successful wetlands. Course topics include: the mitigation process for Section 404; getting the hydrology right; wetland basin construction—what to watch for, selecting wetland plants and planting techniques; self-design vs. designer wetlands; monitoring; and soil development.

Text: Ecological Engineering and Ecosystem Restoration (Mitsch and Jørgensen, 2004, John Wiley & Sons) included in course fee.