Wetland construction begins

The Baker University Wetlands are being restored and expanded as part of a mitigation project by K-DOT to allow it to resume construction on the South Lawrence Trafficway.

Workers began digging canals at the wetlands earlier this month in the first step in returning farmland back to wetland. Initial construction is expected to be complete by the end of the year.

"It will take tow to three weeks assuming we don't have rain in between to get all of the earth moved, berms built and water control structures in place," said Roger Boyd, Director of Natural Areas for Baker University.

Although the project will increase the wetlands area, some residents are still concerned. Partick Freeland, president of the Wetlands Preservation Organization, doesn't want the road built because of the historical significance the wetlands hold. The wetlands is a sacred site to Native Americans.

The Wetlands Presrvation Organization is trying to prevent the completion of the 32nd Street alignment. If they are successful in stopping construction, K-DOT will probably stop work on the mitigated wetlands.