Restoration Timeline, Restoration Impacts

Project Timeline Overview

The implementation of the Dow’s Lake Floating Wetland project is structured around a six-month timeline, designed to balance ecological impact, technical feasibility, and community engagement. From May to November 2025, the project progresses through five interconnected phases.

May–June: Planning and Regulatory Approvals

The project begins with a comprehensive planning phase, where ecological, engineering, and design elements are finalized. This includes GIS mapping, stakeholder coordination, and the development of a government proposal grounded in scientific rationale and ethical considerations. Formal approval is anticipated by mid-June.

June–August: Fabrication and Installation

Following approval, the team will begin fabricating modular floating wetland units and preparing shoreline planting zones. This phase includes the removal of invasive species, soil preparation, and the installation of native vegetation buffers. Floating wetlands will be anchored strategically to intercept stormwater inflow while avoiding recreational routes.

August–October: Habitat Enhancements and Public Engagement

During this period, the project will introduce habitat features such as turtle nesting areas and ephemeral pools, while continuing shoreline planting. Simultaneously, public-facing elements—including signage, QR codes, and citizen science initiatives—will be launched to promote transparency and foster community participation.

June–November: Monitoring and Adaptive Management

Water quality indicators (e.g., phosphorus, dissolved oxygen, turbidity) and biodiversity metrics will be monitored throughout the project. These data will inform adaptive management decisions and provide a baseline for evaluating ecological performance.

October–November: Evaluation and Reporting

The final phase involves compiling monitoring data, stakeholder feedback, and restoration outcomes into a comprehensive report. This document will support future scaling efforts and inform policy discussions around urban shoreline restoration.

This timeline reflects a condensed, interdisciplinary model of ecological restoration that prioritizes measurable outcomes, community involvement, and long-term replicability.