SALTMARSH WATER MANAGEMENT for

MOSQUITO CONTROL and HABITAT RESTORATION

Narragansett Bay is fringed by some 3,600 acres of saltmarshes. Saltmarshes buffer storms, provide nursery grounds for marine species, and are a critical habitat for other wildlife. Many acres have become degraded habitat due to human impacts such as filling and restrictions that limit tidal exchange. Also, many Rhode Island saltmarshes produce mosquitoes.

The Div.of Agriculture’s Office of Mosquito Abatement Coordination (MAC) is involved in saltmarsh mosquito control and restoration projects. The excavator pictured is used to clear clogged channels, fill unnecessary ditches, and create fish reservoirs. The reservoirs harbor species of fish that readily feed on mosquito larvae. The machine was fitted with wide track pads to reduce damage to the marsh surface.

The MAC Office also assists with saltmarsh habitat resoration projects. Partners include DEM’s NBEP (link here), C.R.M.C., the U.S.D.A.’s Natural Resources Conservation Service, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Save The Bay, and other organizations. A common goal is to increase the tidal regime such that the invasive weed Phragmites is replaced with native saltmarsh plants. The DEM’s other wide track machine pictured is often used to mow Phragmites to permit elevational surveys and to hasten the restoration process.

 

To learn more about our low ground pressure excavator click here.

 

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