As avid outdoor enthusiasts, Ron and J.J Bonham know the importance of a healthy ecosystem when it comes to wildlife habitat and pollutant reduction. They partnered with the Red-tail Conservancy to permanently protect this 5 acre wetland in the Prairie Creek Watershed. They then further helped the health of this area by working with the White River Watershed Project to provide a demonstration site for a wetland. This working water filtration system works by slowing the movement of the water from the land to the streams. This allows sediment to drop out and nutrients to be taken up by the plants.

 

The Bonham Wetland was enhanced by connecting the two ponds together and planting diverse emergent and sedge meadow communities.  Students from two Ball State University Departments (Biology and Natural resources and Environmental Management), the NR Club, the Students for a Sustainable Campus, and other volunteers helped to plant during the spring and fall of 2008.

 

 

The White River Watershed Project relies on volunteers to make its programs happen.  On both occasions the Ball State University community and specifically the Natural Resources and Environmental Management Department have stepped up to help out our project.  Without these volunteers none of our great works could have happened.