Author: Walt Milowic

Wetlands in Crisis: How Agriculture, Policy Changes, and Climate Threats Endanger Vital Ecosystems in the Upper Midwest

The following blog post is a summary of the report Wetlands in Peril by Stacy Woods, published on December 4, 2024, in Union of Concerned Scientists. To read the report online and access a downloadable copy, click here.

The report Wetlands in Peril examines the ongoing destruction of wetlands in the Upper Midwest due to industrial agriculture and weakened federal protections. Wetlands provide essential environmental benefits, including flood mitigation, biodiversity support, and water purification, yet recent changes to the Clean Water Act in 2023 have left them increasingly vulnerable. The Upper Midwest contains over 30 million acres of wetlands, which provide nearly $23 billion annually in flood mitigation benefits. If preserved, these wetlands could prevent between $323 billion and $754 billion in long-term flood damages. The report underscores the urgency of protecting these ecosystems, particularly for marginalized communities that face disproportionate flooding risks.

Wetlands are critical for maintaining ecological balance and supporting biodiversity. They provide habitats for 40 percent of the world’s plant and animal species, including many endangered ones. Additionally, wetlands play a significant role in supporting the U.S. commercial seafood industry and offer recreational opportunities such as fishing and bird-watching. Beyond their ecological value, wetlands act as natural pollution filters by trapping sediments and chemicals from agricultural runoff, preventing toxic buildup in water bodies. In the Upper Midwest, where large-scale farming dominates, this filtration is essential for maintaining water quality and preventing dead zones in aquatic ecosystems.

The report highlights industrial agriculture as the primary driver of wetland destruction. Expanding farmland often leads to wetland drainage and pollution from pesticides and fertilizers, significantly impairing water quality and reducing flood protection. Since 1780, the U.S. has lost half of its wetlands, with agriculture being the leading cause of this decline. The Prairie Pothole Region, which spans parts of the Upper Midwest, has experienced a 95 percent loss of wetlands due to agricultural expansion. This loss not only increases flood risks but also releases stored carbon into the atmosphere, exacerbating climate change.

The loss of wetlands has severe economic and environmental justice consequences. Flooding is becoming more frequent and severe due to climate change, and wetlands serve as natural barriers against these disasters. Marginalized communities, particularly in states like Michigan, suffer the most from wetland loss due to historical inequities in housing policies and disaster recovery efforts. The financial burden of flood damages and rising insurance costs disproportionately affects low-income households, making wetland conservation an essential tool for social and environmental resilience. Indigenous communities have led conservation efforts by restoring wetland habitats, showcasing successful models of ecological stewardship.

The report calls for urgent policy reforms in the upcoming farm bill to enhance wetland protections. Recommendations include restoring the Conservation Reserve Program’s original 45-million-acre cap, increasing funding for wetland conservation programs, and linking crop insurance subsidies to sustainable farming practices. The report also emphasizes the need for greater equity in conservation funding, ensuring that historically underserved farmers receive adequate resources. By implementing these measures, policymakers can safeguard wetlands from further destruction, reinforcing their role in flood mitigation, water purification, and climate change resilience.

Bridging Nature and Infrastructure: The Netherlands’ Wildlife Crossings

The following blog post is a summary of the article “Wildlife Crossings Can Mend a Landscape” by Anne Pinto-Rodrigues, published on February 21, 2024, in Sierra magazine. To read the original article, click here.

The Netherlands has made significant advancements in wildlife conservation through the development of wildlife crossings, such as the Zanderij Crailoo Nature Bridge, the longest of its kind in the world. These overpasses and underpasses allow animals to move freely between fragmented habitats without the risk of becoming roadkill. For over three decades, the country has prioritized reducing habitat fragmentation by constructing nearly 3,000 crossings, which cater to various species, from large mammals like deer and wild boars to smaller animals such as otters and hedgehogs. These crossings are crucial for species survival, providing access to food, mates, and new habitats, especially for endangered species. As one of the most densely populated nations, the Netherlands has been forced to address the severe impact of roads and railways on wildlife movement.

The country’s commitment to wildlife crossings began in 1974 with the construction of a badger tunnel and escalated with the 1990 Nature Policy Plan, followed by the 2005 nationwide defragmentation initiative known as the Meerjarenprogramma Ontsnippering (MJPO). The MJPO systematically assessed problematic locations and led to the construction of hundreds of crossing structures. Research by Dutch ecologists has demonstrated the effectiveness of these measures, with studies showing that roadkill of large mammals decreased by 83% when crossings were combined with fencing. Legal mandates, such as the requirement for environmental impact assessments (EIAs) in infrastructure projects, further ensure that wildlife protection remains a priority. Additionally, proper maintenance of these structures, such as clearing badger tunnels of water or trimming vegetation for butterfly-friendly overpasses, is essential for their continued effectiveness.

Other countries, including the United States, are beginning to adopt similar strategies, though progress has been slow. The U.S. passed legislation in 2021 allocating $350 million for a Wildlife Crossings Pilot Program, funding state and tribal authorities to develop habitat connectivity projects. However, experts like Marcel Huijser argue that defragmentation is not yet a priority in the country’s transportation planning. Unlike the Netherlands, where ecological concerns are institutionalized, many U.S. mitigation efforts have only succeeded due to legal battles or political power dynamics. A case in Montana, where tribal authorities halted a highway expansion until wildlife crossings were included, highlights the challenges of integrating ecological concerns into infrastructure projects. While progress is being made, experts emphasize the need for systematic planning and stronger commitments to wildlife conservation in the U.S.

Balancing Beauty and Biodiversity: Maine’s Efforts to Combat Invasive Plant Species

The following blog post is a summary of the article “What to do when a plant is invasive but also serves a purpose” by Kea Krause, published on July 24th, 2023 in Sierra magazine. To read the original article, click here.

Rosa rugosa, commonly known as the beach rose, has become a symbol of Maine’s coastal landscapes, though it is not native to the region. Originally from Asia, the plant has spread rapidly, outcompeting native species and becoming a dominant presence along the shore. Recognizing its invasive nature, the Maine State Terrestrial Invasive Plant Stakeholder Committee considered adding the beach rose to its list of banned plants in 2022. However, because of its ability to thrive in high-salinity environments where other plants struggle, the committee designated it as an “invasive terrestrial plant species of special concern” rather than fully prohibiting its sale. This classification reflects Maine’s nuanced approach to invasive species management, balancing ecological concerns with the practical uses of certain plants.

Maine has been proactive in tackling invasive species through plant bans, despite the challenges of enforcement. The committee reviewed 273 plant species in its five-year reassessment, ultimately doubling the number of prohibited plants. The state has taken an aggressive stance on mitigation, recognizing the importance of maintaining biodiversity, particularly in its forests, which cover 90% of the state. Conservationists emphasize that invasive plants threaten native ecosystems by crowding out essential understory vegetation, which is crucial for forest regeneration. While some skeptics argue that plant bans are ineffective due to ongoing sales in retail stores nationwide, Maine has supplemented its bans with educational outreach and a watch list of potential future threats.

Despite these efforts, climate change poses a persistent challenge by facilitating the spread of invasive species through extreme weather events. Heavy rains and flooding in Maine illustrate how plant material can be transported over long distances, undermining human attempts at control. State horticulturist Gary Fish advocates for further advancements, such as DNA testing technology, to better monitor invasive species. While plant bans are not a perfect solution, they serve as an essential tool for slowing the spread of harmful species rather than eliminating them outright. The next stakeholder review in 2027 will assess progress, and experts remain optimistic that continued collaboration with plant sellers and the public will strengthen Maine’s ecological resilience.

Rediscovering the Giants: Restoring and Protecting the Northeast’s Last Old-Growth Forests

The following blog post is a summary of the article “The Northeast Has Unexpected Old-Growth Forests That Survived Colonial Axes” by Krista Langlois, published in Sierra on June 10, 2024. To read the original article, click here.

Erik Danielson, a self-taught botanist and big-tree hunter, discovered a massive eastern white pine he named “Bigfoot” during a bushwhacking expedition into New York’s Adirondack Mountains. This 151-foot-tall giant stood in a rare, untouched 550-acre old-growth forest, a remnant of what once covered the region before European colonization. Before colonial exploitation, eastern white pines, some soaring to 230 feet, played key ecological and cultural roles, including inspiring the Haudenosaunee Confederacy’s Tree of Peace. However, these majestic trees were heavily harvested, particularly by European settlers and the Royal Navy, drastically altering the Northeast’s landscape. Over centuries, more than 99% of the region’s forests were cleared multiple times for agriculture, timber, and industry.

Despite massive deforestation, northeastern forests have regrown, but most consist of relatively young, uniform trees lacking the complexity of old-growth ecosystems. Ecologists stress that old-growth forests are uniquely valuable due to their rich biodiversity, resilient soil, and role in carbon storage and climate regulation. In places like New Hampshire’s Pisgah State Park, even storm-ravaged “horizontal old growth” highlights how old, decomposing wood provides critical habitats and seeds for future growth. Such ecosystems also offer vital opportunities to study natural forest dynamics, revealing insights into tree longevity and the complex relationships between plants, fungi, and soil organisms. For ecologists and conservationists, identifying and protecting these remaining old-growth pockets is critical for both ecological and historical preservation.

Conservationists envision expanding these forests by protecting adjacent lands, fostering the recovery of young forests, and allowing them to mature into old-growth-like ecosystems. Methods to accelerate forest recovery include mimicking natural processes, such as creating canopy gaps or leaving deadwood to enrich the soil, as advocated by experts like Paul Catanzaro. Others, like David Foster, argue that leaving forests untouched is the best way to restore old growth, pointing to initiatives like Wildlands. Wildlands’ goal is to permanently protect forested lands from human interference. While approaches vary, the shared goal is to transform fragmented landscapes into contiguous corridors of healthy, mature forests, aiding climate resilience and restoring lost biodiversity.

The resurgence of interest in old-growth forests has sparked efforts to identify and map these remaining areas, which remain under-documented despite their ecological significance. Forests like the Adirondacks and Catskills, protected for over a century, provide hope for conservation. However, privately owned old growth remains vulnerable without permanent safeguards. Efforts to connect protected lands, such as linking the Adirondacks with Canada’s Algonquin Park, demonstrate a regional push toward large-scale forest recovery. Conservationists believe that protecting and expanding these rare forests can help recreate ecosystems resembling the Northeast’s pre-colonial woodlands, fostering resilience in the face of environmental challenges.

Ultimately, northeastern forests are slowly recovering, driven by a growing movement of scientists, conservationists, and individuals passionate about rewilding the region. Though this recovery may span centuries, the forests’ natural processes—leaf decomposition, soil formation, and fungal growth—will heal the land over time. With careful protection and stewardship, the Northeast could see future old-growth forests, echoing the grandeur of Bigfoot and other towering giants. This restoration offers hope for a rewilded landscape, reconnecting the region to its ecological and cultural roots while addressing modern environmental concerns like biodiversity loss and climate change.

Revitalizing Lake Erie’s Shoreline: A Model for Coastal Restoration and Community Connection

The following blog post is a summary of the news release published on October 10, 2024, by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. To read the original news release, click here.

This past October, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) announced the successful completion of their wetland restoration project along Ohio’s Lake Erie shoreline. The USACE Buffalo District, in collaboration with the City of Port Clinton, set out to accomplish this massive undertaking five years ago, and are pleased with its success. This $1.9 million initiative, part of the Great Lakes Fishery and Ecosystem Restoration Program, focused on revitalizing 1.4 acres of coastal wetland, removing invasive phragmites, and creating a diverse habitat that benefits both wildlife and the local community. Leaders like Lt. Col. Robert Burnham and Mayor Michael Snider emphasized the ecological and economic importance of preserving wetlands to ensure a thriving local ecosystem and sustainable way of life for residents reliant on Lake Erie. Federal and local leaders, including Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur and Senator Sherrod Brown, lauded the project’s bipartisan support and role as a model for similar efforts.

The project spanned a 12.2-acre wetland and beach complex, transforming 4.6 acres of struggling wetland into six acres of vibrant habitat. Construction efforts included terrain restructuring to promote diverse plant growth, the installation of nearly 40,000 native plant plugs, and the removal of invasive species. Early outcomes have shown significant ecological improvements, including a shift from a phragmites-dominated landscape to a diverse ecosystem supporting native wildlife. Port Clinton’s wetland, situated along two critical bird migration flyways, now serves as a vital link for migratory species and enhances biodiversity in the region. The restored site also offers residents and visitors opportunities for recreation, such as birdwatching, further enriching the community’s connection to its natural surroundings.

The Port Clinton Coastal Restoration Project reflects the USACE Buffalo District’s broader expertise in Great Lakes restoration. Drawing from prior successes in New York and applying lessons to ongoing efforts in Ohio, this collaborative endeavor involved multiple stakeholders, including the Ohio EPA, Ohio Division of Natural Resources, and Great Lakes Fishery Commission. This project demonstrates the power of partnerships in addressing environmental challenges: without all of the stakeholders working together, a restoration of this scale would have been harder to attempt, let alone finish, and may have never gotten off the ground. Funded under Section 506 of the Water Resources Development Act of 2000, the project also highlights the importance of restoring critical habitats and addressing invasive species to sustain the Great Lakes ecosystem. With monitoring underway, the Port Clinton Coastal Restoration Project serves as a blueprint for future coastal restoration efforts across the region, ensuring long-term benefits for both the environment and local communities.

Balancing Clean Energy with Environmental Protections: EPA Reaches a Settlement with Hell’s Kitchen Geothermal, LLC

The following blog post is a summary of the article “EPA settles case with Hell’s Kitchen Geothermal over wetlands discharge impacting on Salton Sea” by Arturo Bojorquez, published in the Imperial Valley Press on October 19, 2024. To read the full article, click here.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has reached a settlement with Hell’s Kitchen Geothermal, LLC (HKG) due to their work on leased Imperial Irrigation District (IID) land that disrupted wetland areas connected to California’s Salton Sea. HKG’s dredging and ditching operations, as part of a lithium extraction and geothermal energy project, resulted in the discharge of materials into adjacent wetlands. This redirected their hydrology, resulting water flowing out of the wetlands and into the Salton Sea. Consequently, this has led to around 1,200 acres of wetlands losing their capacity to maintain ecological functions. Under the settlement, HKG is required to restore these affected wetlands to their original state.

The Salton Sea project, which encompasses geothermal energy production and lithium extraction, is part of a broader initiative aimed at supporting clean energy development. This project seeks to provide 49.9 MW of geothermal energy and produce 20,000 tons of lithium, essential for electric vehicle batteries. However, the project has faced environmental opposition, with groups like Comite Civico del Valle (CCV) arguing that the project’s Environmental Impact Report (EIR) is inadequate, failing to address issues like air quality, hazardous waste, and water supply impacts. HKG’s operations on approximately 2,000 acres of IID-owned land began in 2021, including the extension of drainage channels closer to the sea, resulting in material discharging into around 27 acres of wetlands. Further environmental concerns were raised when it became apparent that the wetland’s ability to hold water had been negatively impacted, as water flowed out of 1,200 acres of wetland and entered the Salton Sea.

CCV and Earthworks contend that Imperial County’s approval overlooked a deeply flawed environmental impact report that failed to analyze the impacts the proposed project would have on the air quality and water quality of the region. In addition, a detailed plan on what to do with the hazardous waste products created as a result of the lithium mining and geothermal energy harvesting was never discussed. Environmental groups argue that the project should not get a free pass simply because it is “green” in nature. This case has highlighted broader calls for effective oversight of clean energy projects. Experts emphasize that projects must balance renewable energy goals with stringent environmental protections to ensure the responsible management of resources like wetlands. Going forward, projects such as this one, even though the end goal would be to mitigate climate change, should operate with “adequate oversight and transparent monitoring” to avoid damaging important public natural resources.

Restoring the Klamath River: A Journey of Cultural Revival and Environmental Healing

The following blog post is a summary of the article “Anything that can be built can be taken down”: The largest dam removal in U.S. history is complete — what happens next? by Lucy Sherriff, published by the BBC on September 3, 2024. To read the original article, click here.

Brook Thompson, a member of the Karuk and Yurok tribes from Northern California, has been fishing on the Klamath River since childhood, where fishing was a way of life. To her and her family, the river was not just a resource but a vital part of their culture and identity. However, in 2002, a massive fish die-off devastated the river, marking a turning point for her community. Thompson recalls how, at seven years old, she witnessed thousands of dead salmon along the shore, an event that had never been recorded in the tribe’s history. This tragedy was linked to low water flow from the Iron Gate Dam, which highlighted the detrimental effects of the dams on the Klamath River ecosystem and the tribe’s livelihood.

The Yurok and Karuk tribes have long opposed the dams, seeing their removal as essential to their survival. The dams blocked fish migration, severely diminishing salmon populations. The tribes’ deep cultural and spiritual connection to the river made the decline of salmon particularly painful. After years of activism and negotiations, the largest dam removal project in U.S. history was completed in 2024, opening over 400 miles of the river. This was a monumental victory for the tribes, as they had been told their demands were impossible. The return of the river’s natural flow brings hope for the recovery of fish populations and the tribe’s cultural practices.

The Klamath River basin, once one of the most productive salmon rivers on the West Coast, had suffered severely due to the dams. Salmon populations plummeted, and the tribes were forced to import fish for their cultural ceremonies. The dams also caused toxic algae growth, further damaging the water quality. The removal of the dams began in 2023, and although the water released downstream was initially dirty, the river has already begun to heal. Tribal members expect fish populations to recover significantly over the coming decades, with predictions estimating an 81% recovery by 2061.

Restoring the land exposed by the drained reservoirs is an ongoing challenge. The tribes, along with environmental organizations, have been working since 2011 to prepare for this restoration, collecting seeds from native plants to reestablish vegetation in the area. These efforts have involved hand-collecting seeds from hundreds of species, including culturally significant plants such as oak trees. The process has been complex, involving careful planning to ensure the genetic suitability of the plants for the local ecosystem. Despite challenges such as wildfires and drought, the restoration team has seen promising results, with wildlife beginning to return to the newly planted areas.

For Thompson and her community, the restoration of the river and the land represents more than just environmental recovery; it is also about healing their connection to their ancestral lands. The removal of the dams symbolizes the reclaiming of their role as stewards of the land, a responsibility passed down through generations. It offers hope not only for the future of the river’s health but for the survival of their cultural traditions tied to the salmon and the ecosystem. Thompson views this restoration as a forward-looking process, blending traditional ecological knowledge with modern scientific practices. While the river may never return to exactly what it once was, the tribes are committed to ensuring its future health for generations to come, believing that they can create a better, more sustainable future for their people.

Beavers as Ecosystem Engineers: Transforming the Landscape in Devon, England for Flood and Drought Resistance

The following blog is a summary of the article Research backs beavers in fight against flooding and droughts by the Devon Wildlife Trust, published online on May 29, 2024. To read the full article, click here.

A decade-long study conducted by the University of Exeter and Devon Wildlife Trust has highlighted the positive impact of beavers on flood and drought management in Devon, England. After being hunted to extinction 400 years ago, beavers were rediscovered living on the East Devon River Otter in 2014. It is unclear how the beavers found their way back, but their legal right to stay was granted in 2020. Forming close-knit family groups, these beavers now inhabit 20 family territories along the river. Beavers are also known as “ecosystem engineers”, as they reshape the landscape to suit their needs by constructing dams. These dams inevitably result in the creation of wetlands, which are prime habitat for the beavers, and an excellent form of flood control for humans. Why? Well, wetlands are able to store large amounts of water, which decreases flooding risks for the surrounding areas.

The research, which combined drone imagery with water depth monitoring, revealed that beaver-created wetlands in four territories stored over 24 million liters of water, equivalent to around 10 Olympic-sized swimming pools. These wetlands help mitigate flooding by reducing storm flows by 30% during heavy rainfall, offering protection to flood-prone communities downstream. Moreover, during droughts, such as the one in 2022, beaver wetlands released stored water slowly, maintaining river flows and creating “green oases” that support various wildlife species.

To further support the benefits of beavers, Devon Wildlife Trust is advocating for the expansion of beaver habitats and is working with two local, East-Devon based landowners through the Department of Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs (Defra)-administered Farming in Protected Landscapes Grant Scheme. Surrendering farmland to the beavers results in a loss of income for farmers, as they lose precious grazing and crop space. This initiative provides financial assistance to farmers, compensating them for that loss. The Farming in Protected Landscapes Grant Scheme is currently only working with Clinton Devon Estates and Bicton College, who are making space for beaver wetlands on their land. The resulting wetlands not only support diverse wildlife but also offer unique learning opportunities for students, as seen at Bicton College, where portions of their working dairy farm were turned into beaver habitat.

Devon Wildlife Trust next goal is to make this innovative “green finance” approach available to more farmers and landowners who are open to transitioning some of their land to wetland habitat. Ed Parrish, the Director of Land-based Operations at Bicton College, supports that goal, stating ” We would like to see this type of funding expanded so that other landowners can be rewarded for the benefits they are providing to the environment when they allow beavers to create wetland habitats.” Dr. Holly Barclay, the Trust’s Green Finance Officer, emphasized the importance of these natural solutions in addressing climate-related challenges such as increasing floods and droughts. The Devon Wildlife Trust aims to develop new funding streams that reward land managers for the societal benefits provided by beaver wetlands, highlighting the cost-effectiveness of these nature-based solutions in mitigating the effects of severe climate events.

Michigan Dairy Farm Ordered to Restore Wetlands After Violating Environmental Laws

The following blog is a summary of the article Farm must restore wetlands, by Eric Levine, published in the Sanilac County News on August 7, 2024. To read the full article, click here.

In a recent legal ruling, a Sanilac County dairy farm, Weaverland Farms, was fined and ordered to restore 69 acres of wetlands that were illegally destroyed. The case was adjudicated by 30th Circuit Judge Wanda Stokes on July 26, 2024, who ruled in favor of the Michigan Department of Great Lakes, Environment and Energy (EGLE). This decision marks a significant moment in the ongoing enforcement of environmental regulations in Michigan.

Background of the Case

The lawsuit against Weaverland Farms and its owners, Nelson, Connie, Arnold, and Ethan Weaver, was initiated by EGLE in October 2022. The agency accused the farm of unlawfully clearing 69 acres of wetlands, which were then converted into a cornfield to support the farm’s dairy operations. The wetlands were also reportedly used as a site to spread manure. This activity came to light during an EGLE investigation into a separate violation concerning the farm’s Concentrated Animal Feeding Operation (CAFO) permit. During this investigation, EGLE discovered that the farm had expanded a manure disposal field, encroaching into the protected wetland area.

Legal Findings and Rulings

Judge Stokes granted summary disposition in favor of EGLE, meaning the case was decided without a full trial because the judge found that there were no significant facts in dispute. The judge ordered Weaverland Farms to restore the 69 acres of wetlands immediately and imposed a $10,000 fine on the farm. In her ruling, Judge Stokes emphasized that the farm’s actions were clear violations of Part 303 of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act (NREPA), which governs the protection of wetlands in Michigan. She noted that the farm, led by Connie and Nelson Weaver, had collectively used the cleared land for their dairy farming activities, despite being aware of its protected status.

Defense Arguments and Court’s Rebuttal

Weaverland Farms presented several defenses, all of which were dismissed by the court. One key argument was that the lawsuit should be dismissed because EGLE allegedly failed to provide a written notice detailing the specific violations before initiating the lawsuit. However, the judge found that EGLE had fulfilled its pre-suit requirements by providing a detailed statement of facts to the defendants, including the location and nature of the violations, and offering to meet with the farm to discuss the issues. The farm also argued that EGLE’s enforcement actions violated the Michigan Right to Farm Act, which protects farmers from nuisance lawsuits if they follow generally accepted agricultural practices. However, Judge Stokes clarified that the Right to Farm Act does not preempt state or federal environmental regulations, such as those under Part 303 of the NREPA. Therefore, the Right to Farm Act did not apply in this case. Another defense put forward by Weaverland Farms was that the required restoration and fine constituted an unconstitutional regulatory taking. The farm claimed that the economic impact of these requirements would render the property worthless, which they argued was contrary to their investment-backed expectations. However, the judge rejected this argument, stating that there was no evidence to support the claim that the enforcement actions constituted an unlawful taking of property.

Conclusion

The ruling underscores the court’s firm stance on the protection of wetlands in Michigan, highlighting the importance of compliance with environmental regulations. Judge Stokes concluded that there was no factual dispute that the wetlands existed on Weaverland Farms’ property and that the farm had indeed violated Part 303 of the NREPA. The judge’s decision to grant summary disposition in favor of EGLE and deny the farm’s motion for summary disposition indicates that the court found the evidence overwhelmingly supported the state’s case. This case serves as a reminder to agricultural operations in Michigan and beyond that environmental regulations must be strictly followed, and violations can result in significant legal and financial consequences. The restoration of the wetlands by Weaverland Farms is not only a legal obligation but also a critical step in preserving the environmental integrity of the region. The decision also reinforces the authority of EGLE and other regulatory bodies to enforce environmental laws and protect natural resources from unlawful exploitation. Despite attempts by Weaverland Farms to challenge the enforcement actions, the court’s ruling affirms the importance of environmental stewardship and the role of the judiciary in upholding laws designed to protect natural resources. The outcome of this case will likely serve as a precedent for future environmental enforcement actions in Michigan and may influence how similar cases are handled in other states.

The Climate Power of Soil

by Tom Clynes, Environmental Defense Fund

The following blog post is an article written for the Environmental Defense Fund by Tom Clynes that was published on May 31, 2024. To read the original publication, click here.

The ground under our feet holds more carbon than the Earth’s atmosphere and all its plants combined. And since almost half the world’s habitable land is devoted to agriculture, efforts to encourage farmers to trap and hold carbon in their soil are picking up speed. More and more farmers today are adopting techniques such as reduced tilling and cover cropping to improve the health of their soils. In addition to reducing fossil fuel and water use, these soil management techniques also hold promise for storing carbon. But soil has many secrets that scientists are just beginning to unravel. “We have to approach this with humility, because there’s a lot we don’t know,” says Jocelyn Lavallee, a soil carbon expert at Environmental Defense Fund. As interest and investment in carbon soil management grows, Lavallee and a team of EDF scientists are digging into the mysteries of dirt.

High-stakes science

Nearly all scientists agree that under certain conditions, soils can capture carbon dioxide from the air and keep it locked way. But less is known about the intricate biogeochemical processes that acquire carbon or release it when disturbances, such as plowing, break up the soil’s structure. Lavallee decided to pursue a graduate degree in soil research because of its implications for the climate. “Soil is a massive store of carbon, and it could go one way or the other,” she says. “It could be a huge source, or it could be a huge sink. It affects so much of the Earth’s future.

On U.S. farms, soil management techniques like cover cropping (planting crops that cover and enrich the soil) and reduced tilling (leaving the soil as undisturbed as possible) are on the rise. About 11% of farms plant cover crops and about 40% use minimal or no tilling, according to a recent USDA survey. By improving soil health, these techniques help farmers build resilience to extreme weather, such as intense droughts and flooding. They can also reduce soil erosion and nutrient loss and increase biodiversity. “These benefits will become more and more important to help farmers cope with the effects of a changing climate,” says Emily Oldfield, an agricultural soil carbon scientist at EDF.

Hands in the dirt

Oldfield worked on a small vegetable farm after college. “The farmer told me, ‘Sure, I grow vegetables. But I’m really a soil farmer, because it’s all about the soil.’ I pursued a PhD to understand more about this,” she says. “Soil represents this nexus between the physical, chemical, and biological – the many complex interactions that combine to support food production.” Oldfield and Lavallee are re-examining the models that carbon credits and other incentives rely on to estimate how much carbon is entering and staying in the soil. “We don’t really know if they represent what’s actually happening to carbon in the ground when farmers adopt certain practices,” says Oldfield. The reliance on models stems from an assumption: Because soil carbon content can vary vastly over a single field, it wouldn’t be economically or logistically feasible to collect and analyze enough samples to directly measure how farmer’s efforts to improve soil health affect carbon storage across large tracts of farmland. “We think that you can and should measure the impact of those practices,” says Oldfield.

EDF teamed up with researchers from Yale University, General Mills and Ecosystem Services Market Consortium to run a test. Using a set of soil carbon samples collected by General Mills on 45 farm fields is Kansas, they found that it was feasible to gauge carbon buildup over a large area by taking samples from a smaller subset of fields. “The study suggests that we can use direct measurements to establish reliable estimates of soil carbon,” says Oldfield. “Having these estimates will instill confidence in the climate impacts of these practices.” In some case, models might still be useful; EDF is leading work to understand where and how they can best fit in. The researchers hope their work can help inform the federally funded Soil Carbon Monitoring Network, a national effort to sample, measure, and monitor the impacts of conservation practices on soil carbon. It can also guide investments by companies trying to understand the climate benefits of various agricultural techniques. “It’s exciting to think that we have the chance to understand these very complex processes within the soil,” says Lavallee, “and the ways that we can use them to carry out climate strategies that work.”