Introduction to Building Backyard Wetlands
In the first video of this series, wildlife biologist Kathlyn Osagie introduces us to the basics of building a backward wetland. From protecting endangered species to increasing property value, Kathlyn discusses several great reasons for building a wetland. She breaks down the three types of wetland techniques used to build wetlands: plastic (PVC) liner, clay liner, and groundwater. She then covers some of the technical details associated with wetland construction, including permits, costs, and skills needed to construct your very own wetland habitat. In this introduction, you’ll find that building a backward wetland is not only a great thing to do for wildlife, it’s totally feasible!
Watch The Video!
“Building wetlands is one of the best things anyone can do to help amphibians and wildlife. My hope is that after watching these videos, you too can build your own backyard wetland! I’ve broken down the steps into easy-to-follow instructions. The videos will cover: finding the ideal location to build a wetland, introduction to hydrology and wetland design, steps to designing your wetland, how to use a laser level, steps in constructing a wetland, and how to make it wildlife-friendly. We have lost so many wetlands; it’s time to build them back!”
— Kathlyn Osagie
Wetland Building Inspiration
“I thought you would be interested to know that on my 35 acres in north central Pennsylvania we have a small wetland that was just wet with no standing water. I took an area of about 16 feet by 7 feet and over a few years dug out an area about 16 inches deep. For a few years only young green frogs made use of it, then 3 years ago I had my first frog eggs. They turned out to be wood frogs. This year I had over 12 wood frogs and loads of eggs that are now free swimming tadpoles that I monitor every day. That little pond, which I refer to as my puddle, has now become a destination for spotted salamanders as well, who are also reproducing there. I hope my little success with my little puddle will encourage others to do the same.”
– Henry Berkowitz
About The Instructor
“My name is Kathlyn Franco Osagie and I believe the number one thing you can do to help wildlife is build wetlands. I have worked with small mammals, plants, reptiles and it is my work building wetlands for amphibians that I believe has made the biggest difference.
I started building wetlands in 2014. It led me to seek out a masters degree. I completed graduate school with a 4.0 GPA. I am a proud Latina women in science. My parents are both immigrants from Latin America and I am the first to graduate from High School and College. I hope to inspire women especially minority women to join the sciences.
If you love what we are doing please donate today!
“I just donated $100 and hopefully Kathlyn can build some of her wetlands. I appreciate all I have learned from the classes and from Kathlyn and hope to put the knowledge to use very soon.”
— SAVE THE FROGS! Wetland Construction Workshop Participant Mindy Meadows
