Why Should We Restore Dyke Marsh? How Will Global Warming Affect Dyke Marsh?

May 14 – 7:30 p.m., Huntley Meadows Park Visitors’ Center, 3701 Lockheed Boulevard, Alexandria, VA 22306 (www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/huntley/directions.htm)

Speaker: Dr. Katia Engelhardt, University of Maryland’s Center for Environmental Science, the scientist who analyzed what is known about the natural resources of Dyke Marsh and its restoration potential, will summarize her findings, explain why Dyke Marsh should be restored and examine the possible effects of sea level rise on Dyke Marsh. She compiled available information about this nationally significant wetland – the plants, animals, invasives, hydrology, geology, history and other aspects.

Dyke Marsh is a 380-acre freshwater, tidal wetland on the Potomac River in Fairfax County, managed by the U. S. National Park Service. Almost half or 270 acres of Dyke Marsh was destroyed by dredging. The wetland was also a site for the dumping of construction and other debris. It is being invaded by non-native invasive plants, animals and insects. The National Park Service has determined that the restoration of Dyke Marsh is both “feasible and desirable” and they have started the process to prepare options for restoration. Visit www.fodm.org.