Description

This research project was conducted by a team of University of Michigan School for Environment & Sustainability master's students and focused on understanding current perceptions of non-tidal wetlands, identifying barriers to communication and participation in restoration projects, and developing a targeted strategy to better engage local stakeholders. The project included two main phases: a comprehensive literature review and semi-structured interviews with local stakeholders from federal, state, and local governments, as well as nonprofit organizations and the private sector. Recommendations are focused on improving communication around non-tidal wetlands, increasing community engagement, using funding opportunities efficiently and encouraging policy alignment to ecological and community needs.