Project Description

The 457-acre Tidemarsh, Inc. property in Elsinboro, NJ was acquired in March 2008 using M/V Presidente Rivera oil spill settlement funds and became a part of the Abbotts Meadow Wildlife Management Area. Tidemarsh, Inc., a local hunting club, retained approximately 15 acres surrounding their cabin that is now covered by a conservation easement restricting further development. A large portion of the tract was diked in the mid-1800s for agricultural use. Due to subsequent changes to the hydrology of the tidal salt marsh, dense stands of common reeds (Phragmites) became established throughout the property. This decreased the productivity of the marsh and significantly reduced its habitat value for many species of wildlife. The tidal marshes acquired in this project are located in the Delaware Bay Estuary, one of the most important habitat areas for migrating shorebirds and waterfowl in the Atlantic Flyway. The acquisition and subsequent restoration of the Tidemarsh, Inc. property led to the enhancement of critical habitat for waterfowl, in particular, wintering habitat for American black duck.

Restoration Land Ownership

State

Parties Implementing Restoration

New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection

DOI Project Representatives

Fish and Wildlife Service