Multiple methods confirm wetland restoration improves ecosystem services

Global wetland loss has reduced biodiversity and ecosystem services. These declines have inspired many landholders to restore wetlands, but the success of these efforts remains unclear, in part, because quantifying services requires diverse methods. Here, we blend participatory mapping surveys, field measurements high-resolution models track from restored wetlands on private land. We ask: 1) What do people perceive wetlands? 2) modelled/field measured were enhanced through restoration? 3) How measured, modelled perceived interact? Participating mapped their restoration project shared perceptions Next, service changes using Land Use Capability Indicator (LUCI) model contrasted for each wetland. Landholders ~6.5 wetlands. For services, significantly nitrogen phosphorous retention. field-measured increased soil organic carbon by ~20%, permeability water ~27% native plant species richness ~15 species, while reducing plant-available ~23%. Correlating across methods revealed that phosphorus site age size associated with more whereas an increase was not a good proxy gains or Based gained, demonstrated multiple methods, contend can be successful as well leveraged meet management policy objectives.