Anoka Wetlands
The historical loss of wetlands in Anoka County from draining and filling has destroyed approximately 30% of our original 86,000 acres of wetlands prior to European settlement. Countless more acres have been partially drained which can cause the invasion of non-native vegetation and a reduction in the functions and values of the wetland.
In Anoka County, for many species of plants and animals, such as the pitcher plant (a carnivorous plant!) and the Blanding's turtle, wetlands are their primary home. For a large majority, such as tiger salamanders and Sandhill cranes, wetlands are needed for at least a portion of their lifecycle (such as reproduction) in order to survive.
Anoka County wetlands harbor many examples of unique and beautiful natural communities such as white cedar swamps, tamarack bogs, sedge meadows, hardwood swamps, floodplain forests and wet prairies.
