Conservation Opportunities

Wetlands

Wetlands are among the most productive natural ecosystems in the world, comparable to tropical rain forests or coral reefs in this regard, yet more than half of all wetlands or the Prairies have been lost or drained since pioneer settlement began - in the Red River valley upwards of 90% of wetlands have been lost.

Today, wetlands are increasingly recognized as integral components of a watershed and can aid in flood control, increase biodiversity, improve the quality of both surface and ground water and provide numerous aesthetic and recreational benefits to society.

MHHC has voluntary programs that can preserve all types and sizes of existing wetlands and restore areas that were formerly wetlands. Any wetland that a landowner chooses to enrol in either program will secure its place in the landscape for evermore. MHHC offers two main programs to protect wetlands:

• Potholes Plus Program
  This program focuses on the preservation of existing wetlands and surrounding upland areas
• Wetland Restoration Incentive Program
  This program focuses on the restoration of previously drained wetlands