Oxbows are old river meanders that get cut off from the flow of the river. Healthy oxbows provide valuable wetland benefits such as improved water quality, increased floodwater storage, and critical wildlife habitat. However, many oxbows have filled in with excess sediment over the years and cease to provide the many benefits that they used to. Restoration returns oxbows to healthy functioning wetlands that provide multiple benefits for people and nature.
CLICK HERE to learn how to restore an oxbow, step-by-step
CLICK HERE to see the Boone River Watershed oxbow brochure.
CLICK HERE to see a fish-eyes view of what is inside a restored oxbow!
Click HERE to learn more about oxbows and the power of wetlands!
Click HERE to watch a virtual field day about oxbows.
Click HERE to watch a webinar about oxbows.
An oxbow restoration site in the 1950’s when it was still connected to White Fox Creek.
The same oxbow restoration site prior to restoration. Site is no longer connected to the creek and has completely filled in with sediment over the years.
The same oxbow restoration sites after restoration is complete. Oxbow now holds water year-round and connects with creek during high flows, which allow fish to access the habitat.
If you are interested in learning more about oxbow restorations in the Boone River Watershed, or if you believe that you have a potential restoration site on your property and would like to learn about funding opportunities available for restoration, please contact:
Karen Wilke
Boone River Project Director
The Nature Conservancy
480-678-2352
kwilke@tnc.org
Boone River Watershed 