CWD Ecosystem Restoration 3

Question 1

Which invasive plant species is a major obstacle to coastal marsh restoration along the Atlantic and Gulf Coasts of the US?

Accepted Answer

Phragmites australis (common reed)

Answer

Invasive Phragmites australis forms dense monocultures that displace native marsh vegetation and reduce habitat value in Atlantic and Gulf Coast marshes.

Question 2

What is 'muted tidal restoration' as applied to salt marsh recovery?

Accepted Answer

Providing partial tidal exchange through restricted culverts to reduce flood risk while improving salinity and vegetation

Answer

Muted tidal restoration uses restricted culverts or tide gates to allow limited tidal exchange, balancing ecological benefits with flood risk concerns for adjacent landowners.

Question 3

Which agency administers the Wetlands Reserve Easement (WRE) program that funds private wetland restoration in the US?

Accepted Answer

USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)

Answer

The NRCS administers the Wetlands Reserve Easement under the Agricultural Conservation Easement Program, providing funding to restore wetlands on private agricultural land.

Question 4

In restored wetlands, what is the ecological role of coarse woody debris (CWD)?

Accepted Answer

It provides habitat structure for macroinvertebrates, amphibians, and fish

Answer

Coarse woody debris creates critical microhabitats, substrate for biofilm, and refuge for aquatic organisms, significantly enhancing faunal diversity in restored wetlands.

Question 5

What hydrological phenomenon causes 'perched wetlands' and what challenge does it pose for restoration?

Accepted Answer

A shallow impermeable layer that holds water above the regional water table; restoration must maintain the restrictive layer

Answer

Perched wetlands form over shallow restrictive layers such as clay or fragipan; restoration must avoid disturbing this layer or the hydrologic support for the wetland is lost.

(CWD) Certified Wetland Delineator Practice Test

(CWD) Certified Wetland Delineator Practice Test

CWD Ecosystem Restoration 3