We are investigating how birds use constructed wetlands across Iowa. Constructed wetlands have been designed and installed across Iowa to improve water quality through programs such as the Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP). Many wildlife species use these wetlands and our research seeks to understand how they support wildlife and identify design features that may maximize those benefits while still improving water quality. The research is a collaboration between the landowners that own and manage the wetlands, the agencies and non-profits involved in their construction, and our research team that visits the sites to monitor wildlife with a variety of techniques.
Get Involved!
We are actively recruiting willing landowners to grant us permission to survey constructed wetlands on their property. If you have a constructed wetland (CREP, WQI, etc.) on your property, and are interested in participating in this important research, please complete this online form or reach out to the project team at the contact information below.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does my participation entail?
A: Providing access to your private property to conduct bird surveys. Access frequency and the number of surveys may depend on the species of wildlife present on the wetland. We estimate that there will be no more than 4 surveys per month May-August. There is no cost, other than allowing student researchers access your property!
Q: How will researchers be surveying?
A: We will be using three different methods:
- Researchers will utilize quadcopter drones to conduct bird surveys from the sky! This technology will allow us to see birds that you typically are unable to from the ground. Drone operators will be certified operators of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
- On wetlands with certain species present, researchers will be conduct nest surveys to understand how birds are doing. Researchers will be trained to limit disturbances. These surveys will be completed with proper State and Federal permits in addition to institutional approval.
- In some instances, we may ask to leave recording Acoustic Recording Units. These units have the ability to observe bird calls when researchers aren’t present. You can see pictures of these units on our research group's main website.
Q: What do I get for participating in the project?
A: Your participation is important in supporting Iowa’s wildlife and future wetland construction. In addition, allowing student researchers on your property will provide invaluable experiences that inform the future generation of natural resource professionals. Annually, the graduate student working on the project will provide an annual report to YOU!
Q: I am interested in constructing a wetland on my property, how do I do so?
A: Please contact the staff at the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship to learn more about the programs that construct these wetlands and see if you and your land qualify!
Q: I have an additional question.
A: Please contact the project team. We are happy to answer any questions you may have!
Project team
Jayden Jech (jjech@iastate.edu) – Graduate student, fieldwork lead
Dr. Adam Janke (ajanke@iastate.edu) - Principal investigator
This research is funded by the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship and done in collaboration with other researchers at Iowa State University and other partnering organizations.