This project is critical to addressing many of the watershed threats identified in the DNR/EPA-approved Pike River Watershed Plan, including the infiltration and storage of stormwater that effectively slows runoff and improves water quality, all while creating valuable habitat for native species. This agreement also provides a conservation easement on the area so that it will remain a protected wetland in perpetuity. Long-term management will be funded through an endowment managed by the Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin. This is what Root-Pike WIN calls a WIN-WIN-WIN solution!
Joe Pfeiffer, Vice President, KCI Environmental Technologies and Construction, Inc. agrees, saying “The Meacham Road wetland and habitat restoration project is a great project with great local partners and leadership. It’s been a lot of fun to see it come together with this recent tree planting over the last few weeks. KCI has a long record of working with conservation groups and agencies to complete water quality and habitat projects like this around the country. This restoration helps us support the Pike River Watershed Restoration Plan and meet local goals and it couldn’t happen without the full support of the Wisconsin DNR’s Wetland Conservation Trust. We look forward to continuing to work together in the future”.
KCI is an employee-owned, multi-disciplinary firm delivering a full range of water resources services to organizations and agencies all over the country including watershed assessments, facility design, engineering, and construction services as well as natural resources and nutrient management. KCI has Wisconsin staff based in Lacrosse and Madison.
Funds for this project came from the Wisconsin Wetland Conservation Trust (WWCT), which funds wetland restoration projects that offset permitted wetland impacts. Some of these funds include mitigation fees from the Foxconn development in an effort to restore native wetlands to create a passive, public place for the community to enjoy.
Wisconsin Conservation Corps (WisCorps), a private non-profit located in La Crosse, was also onsite to aid in the planting. WisCorps Conservation Program Manager Andrea Frisch shares, "WisCorps’ mission is to develop leadership, self-confidence, and a strong work ethic in youth and young adults through the active stewardship of Wisconsin’s communities and natural resources. WisCorps Crews complete high-priority conservation projects including trail building, habitat restoration, carpentry, and invasive species removal". This is one of 6 conservation projects this team has completed throughout the state this season.
As County Executive Jonathan Delagrave explains, “It is great to see public-private partnerships like this one working together to advance the environmental needs of our county. The restored wetlands will leave a legacy for residents and visitors to the Meachem Road site to enjoy for future generations and at no cost to Racine County taxpayers.”
