Creating Wetland Scrapes听
Wetland scrapes are shallow ponds or temporary pools that are designed to hold rain and flood water seasonally, but become relatively dry for much of the year. Often created in floodplains or low areas with a high water table, they are constructed to mimic natural pools in open areas. They make a significant difference to wildlife, especially in agricultural areas, by providing breeding habitat for amphibians and a source of water for birds and mammals.
A wetland scrape under construction
These shallow depressions are usually less than one meter in depth, with both shallow and deep areas provided to increase habitat diversity. To enhance its value, a varied shoreline with spits and bays, and gently sloping edges is preferred. An uneven shoreline and broad, marshy areas around the wetland provides more edge habitat that is attractive to wildlife. They do not necessarily need to be large in size. Even small pools in the corner of a field are beneficial.听
Despite their tendency to change between wet and dry, these temporary ponds support a wide range of aquatic life. They offer important habitat and refuge for amphibians, wading birds and small mammals, as well as insects and plants that provide food for these organisms. Scrapes also hold excess surface water to help reduce the risk of flooding.听
American toad tadpoles start life in a shallow pond or wetland
Ideally, a scrape should hold water from March to late June, allowing water levels to naturally recede as the weather becomes hotter and drier. The drying conditions prevent fish from establishing. This provides a predator-free environment for tadpoles and many aquatic invertebrates to thrive. Eggs and tadpoles of toads, spring peepers and wood frogs develop rapidly and transform into juveniles in the few weeks before the pool dries out.听听 听
糖心直播 (UTRCA) staff have assisted many landowners in the watershed to create scrapes on their farms, with the latest being at the Cade Tract. This scrape was created to enhance the fen-like features that exist on the property and is fed by natural springs or seeps. Landowners interested in creating a wetland can contact UTRCA staff.听
Shallow wetlands are a nursery for baby toads in spring
Contact:听Brenda Gallagher, Forestry Technician