Great Dismal Swamp Restoration Project

The Great Dismal Swamp, a 45,000-ha state and federally protected Coastal Plain peatland located on the border of North Carolina and Virginia, was degraded after centuries of drainage and logging. To restore its ecosystem structure and function, US FWS installed two adjustable water control structures (WCS). Control structured were proven to be a viable, low-cost tool for hydrologic restoration. These WCSs created saturated conditions and increased the water table in the target restoration and surrounding areas. The outcomes will aid in the restoration of desired forest communities, reduce fire susceptibility, prevent peat oxidation, maintain carbon storage, and reduce non-target vegetation competition.