This is a reminder that you can visit one of the newest Smart Wetlands and the first in Marshall County. The public is invited to two sessions on June 29, 2023. The first session is from 11 am and 2 pm on June 29, 2023. It is designed to interest farmers, farmland owners, and agribusiness professionals. A free ribeye sandwich lunch will be served at noon, with presentations on various sustainable agriculture practices and an update on progress to get a US Farm Bill passed this session. In addition the participants will be able to tour the wetland and learn why this edge-of-field practice is so important to improving water quality in Illinois.
Marshall County Smart Wetland, May 25, 2023
Later from 4–7 pm, the public, conservation professionals, and hunters interested are urged to attend. This session is focused on showing how this practice with native marsh vegetation can provide habitat for wildlife, waterfowl, pollinators, and recreational opportunities for landowners on their property. Marshall-Putnam Soil and Water Conservation District and Wetlands Initiative staff and other conservation professionals will be on hand to answer questions. Snacks and drinks will be served.
Smart Wetlands are specifically located and custom-designed constructed wetlands to fit within today’s farming operation to remove nutrients. This wetland was constructed in September 2021 and is now fully operational. MK Farm Drainage Specialists built the 1.83-acre wetland at McCuskey Farms under the direction of the Marshall-Putnam County Soil and Water Conservation District (M-P SWCD) and the Wetlands Initiative (TWI) through their Smart Wetlands program. Martin McCuskey owns the farm, and Rex Newton is the farmer.
The Smart Wetland installation site is located west of Henry, IL, near the intersection of Marshall County Road 500 East and County Road 1400 North, along the Scholes Branch Creek. To ensure you get to the field day easily, here is a Google Maps link, driving directions, and a map.
From the East thru Henry, IL
Drive west on Western Ave, (County Road 1300 N) about 7 miles
Turn right (northbound) onto Yankee Lane (Country Road 500 E) about 1 mile
Turn left (westbound) onto County Road 1400 N and travel approximately 2 miles to
Turn right onto County Road 500 E and follow the signs to the event entrance
From the South via State Highway 29
Take Highway 29 to County Road 1100 North – (you will pass thru Henry)
Turn left onto 1100 North and drive approximately 14 miles
Turn right onto County Road 500 E and follow the signs to the event entrance
From the North via State Highway 29
Take Highway 29 southbound thru Putnam to County Road 1100 North (this road is just north of Henry)
Turn right onto 1100 North and follow that road for about 14 miles
Turn right onto County Road 500 E and follow the signs to the event entrance
The red dot on the map above is the site of the June 29, 2023 Marshall County Smart Wetland field day. Two sessions will be held. The first from 11 am to 2 pm and later that day from 4 to 7 pm.