Purpose: The purpose of this project was to improve water management capabilities on 300 acres of managed wetlands within the Pine Island Unit of Santee NWR. This project included construction of one cross-dike to separate green-tree reservoir units from other freshwater management units in this complex and also included installation one water control structure. The renovated infrastructure will allow the USFWS to manage the timing and fluctuation of water levels within the 300-acre site. Waterfowl species that will benefit from this project include Canada geese, mallards, and wood ducks. Although noted primarily for its waterfowl, Santee NWR also provides habitat for endangered species such as the bald eagle and red-cockaded woodpecker. The USFWS will manage the project to benefit wintering waterfowl by controlling water levels within the green-tree reservoir in order to provide suitable habitat within stands of mast producing trees.

Location: Santee NWR, Clarendon County, South Carolina

Acres Impacted: 300 acres

Habitat Type: Green-tree Reservoir
Freshwater Marsh

Partners: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Ducks Unlimited, Inc.

Timeline: Project was completed in June 2006

DU Contact: Craig LeSchack
Director of Conservation Programs
3294 Ashley Phosphate Rd, Suite 1-F
North Charleston, SC 29418
843-745-9110
cleschack@ducks.org