The Johnson Farms Site is 25.4 acres in Burke County, Georgia, operating under the Georgia Agricultural Wetland Bank (GAWB). It provides compensatory mitigation for wetland losses from agricultural activities, with 22.7 acres designated for wetland restoration and 2.7 acres of upland buffer.
Site History
Prior to restoration, the Johnson Farms Site was used for silviculture and cattle grazing, resulting in the loss of the site’s natural depressional wetland. Past land management altered the property’s hydrology and habitat conditions. Drainage ditches were excavated and a center pivot irrigation system was installed to remove water from the site and support agricultural production. These changes dried out the natural wetland, degraded water quality, and reduced wildlife habitat, creating an opportunity for restoration.
Restoration Approach
To restore this land, WES plugged and filled the drainage ditches that previously dried out the wetland, allowing water to return to more natural patterns across the landscape. WES also planted native wetland trees and shrubs throughout the site and established an upland buffer along the perimeter. These restoration efforts are intended to help rebuild the wetland’s natural functions, supporting water quality, wildlife habitat, and overall ecological health.
Location:
Burke County, GA
Credit Types:
Acres:
25.4
Approving Agencies:
Natural Resources Conservation Service
Have questions about credits or the service area?
WES wants to answer all your questions related to compensatory mitigation. Whether you have issues related to service areas, credit types, ratios, or agency approvals, we are here to help. Please contact our sales team for additional information.
