Wetlands

The Staten Island Botanical Garden (SIBG) is restoring an officially mapped New York State Fresh Water Class I Wetland. The 20-acre pond, stream valley and surrounding natural area will be returned to health while providing educational opportunities to the community. The wetland habitat is in jeopardy due to the invasion of foreign plant species and siltation as a result of soil erosion from surrounding upland slopes. These factors have created an environment diminished in naturally occurring flora and fauna, greatly decreasing recreational enjoyment of the entire wetlands area.

Photo: Al Efron

The final wetland area will be designed for self-sustainability. Non-native species will be removed and planting shelves will be constructed to reintroduce aquatic vegetation of various species. Each planting shelf will hold a distinct population of plants. Emergent plantings will be added to the pond, and native wetland plants, trees and shrubs will be added to the perimeter of the pond. Endangered fauna will be reintroduced in to the area.


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