Bald Eagles Remind Us of Need for Wetland Restoration

This pair of bald eagles was recently spotted at the Medora Landfill in Jackson County, Ind. Although it is the national bird of the United States, the bald eagle is classified as a federally threatened species in the lower 48 states.

Bald eagles became extremely rare in Indiana by the 1960s due to loss of wetlands, which is the preferred habit for the species. In 1985, the Indiana Nongame and Endangered Wildlife Program began the Bald Eagle Reintroduction Project, which helped revive the bald eagle population in Indiana.

Rumpke has been working to restore wetlands including a three-acre restoration project at the Medora Landfill. More than 25 native plant species were planted in 2010 to enhance and maintain the natural features of the protected property. The wetland project also includes an observation deck where local students can learn about the wetlands without disturbing plant and animal life.

Although eagles prefer to nest near larger bodies of water, Rumpke’s wetland project will provide habitat for other native plants and animals, as well as improve and maintain water quality and control runoff of sediments.

Check our blog this spring for photos and updates about our wetlands projects.

Written by Rumpke's Corporate Communications Team.