In an Iowa Learning Farms webinar, “Exploring the Ecology of Water Quality Wetlands in Iowa,” ISU associate profesor Adam Janke, in the Department of Natural Resource Ecology and anagement, will highlight the function and performance of nutrient treatment wetlands that have been constructed across Iowa to improve surface water quality in drained agricultural landscapes. He will draw on research comparing the ecology of these wetlands with nearby wetlands and discuss how they are contributing to wildlife conservation across the state. Janke will also discuss taking a broader view of water quality improvement wetlands to include the ecology of these sites, including the wildlife that use them.
“What’s good for water is often good for wildlife too, and our research seems to show that water quality conservation practices like wetlands are really making a difference in Iowa,” said Janke. “It is encouraging to see the expansion of these wetland practices. As we take a closer look, we’re finding that certain features of wetlands are associated with greater bird use. We are hopeful that landowners and conservation professionals can apply these new insights to improve design and extend the impacts of agricultural wetland sites!”
Janke is a trained wildlife biologist, having received a B.S., M.S., and Ph.D. in wildlife conservation and ecology from three land-grant schools in the Midwest. He is also a Certified Wildlife Biologist through The Wildlife Society and is active in regional and national efforts for wildlife conservation and education. Janke conducts research and education on finding opportunities for strengthening wildlife habitat conservation in working landscapes in Iowa and throughout the Midwest.
A recording of this webinar is available at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NABywc7Es_0, and on the ILF website.