Illinois wetlands restoration projects get grants

Two Illinois wetlands restoration projects have received grants to help improve habitat for migratory birds.

The Migratory Bird Conservation Commission approved $152,400 in federal funding for wet meadow restoration at Hennepin and Hopper lakes in Putnam County and $138,100 for conservation easements near the confluence of the Illinois and Sangamon rivers. The grants are matched by partner funds.

The Putnam County project is being under taken by the Wetlands Initiative, partnering with Chicago's Field Museum. It will restore 120 acres of threatened wetland habitat within the 2,600-acre Sue and Wes Dixon Waterfowl Refuge by replacing invasive plants with native species to benefit several waterfowl species.

Ducks Unlimited will buy two easements to protect 658 acres of wetland habitat along the Illinois River at Sangamon Bay and Treadway Lake.