Haskell-Baker Wetlands
The Haskell-Baker Wetlands
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The Haskell-Baker Wetlands in March 2009
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The Haskell-Baker Wetlands is an artificially-sustained nature preserve,[1] spanning approximately 640 acres (2.6 km2) adjacently south of Lawrence, Kansas, United States.
Joint owners Baker University, Haskell Indian Nations University, the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks, and the University of Kansas hold 573, 27, 20, and 20 acres, respectively. Baker University received its portion from the United States Department of Health, Education, and Welfare in 1968.
In 1969, the National Park Service declared the wetlands a National Natural Landmark. In 1989, the Kansas Biological Survey declared the wetlands an official Natural and Scientific area. The wetlands support 471 documented species of vascular plant, 254 species of bird, and 61 additional vertebrate species.[2]
A proposal for completion of the South Lawrence Trafficway, a realignment of K-10, has generated fierce opposition. Scientists and environmental researchers contend that the highway would do irreparable harm to a sensitive ecosystem.[3]
A plan to mitigate for lost wetlands, loss of pedestrian access, and highway noise was approved by the US Army Corps of Engineers, Kansas Department of Transportation, and Federal Highway Administration.[4] Approximately 380 acres of manmade wetlands will be developed adjacent to the current site.[5]
References
- ^ Boyd, Roger. "Frequently Asked Questions". BakerU.edu. Baker University. Retrieved 2013-02-09.
- ^ Species Lists; Prof. Roger L. Boyd
- ^ Sierra Club SLT Issues Page
- ^ SLT website
- ^ "KDOT commits $192 million to complete South Lawrence Trafficway". Retrieved 2011-08-11.
Further reading
- Activists rally for wetlands on KU campus – The Lawrence Journal-World
