University of Toledo CADE Wetland and Stream Restoration

In partnership with The University of Toledo Foundation and the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, RES developed the turn-key UT CADE Restoration Project in Toledo, Ohio. The 49-acre project on The UT Foundation’s property has been fully funded by ODNR’s H2Ohio program, which aims to reduce nutrient runoff into the Western Lake Erie Basin. RES worked alongside these partners from project inception through design, permitting, and construction and will continue with long-term maintenance of the site.

Previously, existing stream channels (Tributaries to the Ottawa River) through the CADE (Center for Alumni & Donor Engagement) project were deeply incised and subject to systemic bank erosion. Consequently, associated resources (Wetlands, Riparian Areas, and Upland Buffers) have undergone direct and indirect historic and ongoing impacts. This restoration project has restored stable, meandering stream channels with improved hydraulic connectivity to the adjacent floodplains and associated wetland complexes, utilizing a hybrid approach of floodplain excavation and grading in tandem with Natural Channel Design methods.

The restoration approach involved installing stream enhancement structures (log vanes/log weirs) and excavating/repairing eroding banks. The strategic installation of log sill grade control structures, log cross vanes, and rock riffles enhanced wetland and riparian floodplain reconnection. Adjacent wetland areas were hydrologically and vegetatively re-established and/or rehabilitated using shallow soil scrapes, followed by extensive native seeding and planting. Vegetative restoration included planting palettes to create a wetland mosaic containing native emergent, scrub-shrub, and forested wetland types.

Wooded riparian areas (areas beyond the identified wetlands) were enhanced by controlling invasive plant species and planting and/or seeding vegetation native to the region. In addition, disturbed upland regions underwent native upland seeding to promote an upland buffer and pollinator habitat reflective of undisturbed reference sites throughout the region.

This project has helped reduce sediment, nitrogen, and phosphorous pollutants. Secondary benefits have included stream stabilization, erosion and flood mitigation, improved terrestrial and aquatic habitats, and enhanced educational and recreational opportunities at the CADE campus. Additional long-term benefits have included the use of the property by University academics as an outdoor classroom for ecological instruction, studies, and graduate research.