American Wetlands Month

Did you know that May is American Wetlands Month? It's the perfect time to celebrate the amazing wetlands right here in the Wasatch Back! Wetlands are one of the most important—and rare—ecosystems in Utah. In fact, less than 1% of our entire state is considered wetland and 75% of Utah’s wetlands surround the Great Salt Lake. That’s what makes wetlands like the Swaner Preserve so special! 

A Hidden Treasure in Park City 

You may have passed by Swaner Preserve without knowing what an incredible natural area it is! Back in 1993, the Swaner family donated 190 acres in memory of their father, Leland, who ranched the land for decades. At first, they considered creating a rose garden or a park. But after ecological testing, they discovered rich wetland soil below the surface of the ranch lands and caught the conservation bug. 

Thanks to the hard work of the Swaner family and many others, that original piece of land has grown into 1,200 acres of permanently protected land. Today, the Swaner Preserve is made up of ~850 acres of wetlands and ~350 acres of sagebrush uplands, and it’s home to a stunning variety of wildlife and plants. We still work to restore this land to its most natural state. 

Why Wetlands Matter 

Wetlands play a powerful and important role in keeping our ecosystem healthy. Here are five reasons why wetlands are so important: 

1. A Home for Wildlife – Wetlands are home to a large variety of wildlife! The preserve is home to over 170 types of birds, nearly 50 animal species, and more than 200 plant species. If you love birdwatching or spotting wildlife, wetlands are the place to be! 
2. Clean Water Champions – Like a coffee filter, wetlands help naturally filter and clean water. Plants and bacteria in the wetlands trap chemicals and dirt, helping to keep our streams and rivers cleaner. 
3. Natural Sponges – Wetlands soak up water, just like a sponge, when it rains or when snow melts. They slowly release it over time, helping to prevent floods and keeping water flowing even during dry times.
4. Groundwater Guardians  – Wetlands help refill underground water supplies, which is super important in dry places like Utah. 
5. Peaceful Places – Spending time in wetlands is good for people too! Studies show that being in nature can reduce stress and even help you focus better. 

Come Explore! 

Whether you're looking to go on a walk, bird watch, or just soak up beautiful views, Swaner Preserve is a perfect place to celebrate American Wetlands Month. Let’s all do our part to protect and celebrate Utah’s wetlands—not just in May, but all year long!

Other Naturalist News

Loss of Beaver Population Next to Swaner EcoCenter

Between March 23 and April 2, five dead beavers were discovered near the Swaner Preserve & EcoCenter by Swaner staff. All five beavers shared one lodge outside the EcoCenter, and samples collected from one of the beavers tested positive for tularemia.

Swaner Preserve & EcoCenter Welcomes New Executive Director

We are thrilled to announce our new executive director, Lewis Kogan. Learn more about his impressive career and excitement to join the organization.

What To Do If You Find a Baby Bird

It’s spring, which means baby animals of all kinds are starting to appear! Learn what to do if you find a baby bird during this time of year.

Amazing Butterflies

If you enjoy summer days hiking in the local mountains or sitting among the flowers in a nearby garden, you have undoubtedly observed butterflies flitting from flower to flower or gliding on updrafts overhead. These small fragile creatures have withstood

American Wetlands Month

Did you know that May is American Wetlands Month? It's the perfect time to celebrate the amazing wetlands right here in the Wasatch Back! Wetlands are one of the most important—and rare—ecosystems in Utah. In fact, less than 1% of our entire state is cons

Clever Creatures: How Local Wildlife Prepares for Winter

All around us, wildlife here on the Wasatch Back are making remarkable adjustments to survive the cold months ahead. Some tuck themselves away in a kind of suspended animation, while others stay active, transforming their behavior to endure freezing tempe

Become a Community Scientist

Towards the end of April, you have a unique opportunity to become a part of something big – the City Nature Challenge! In Park City, this event is a collaboration between Swaner Preserve & EcoCenter and Basin Recreation, and it's all about observing and d

How Stars and Nature Guide Us Through Change

Places like the Swaner Preserve have become increasingly rare. Behind a shopping plaza with diverse restaurants, boutiques, and condos, there lies a 1,200-acre piece of permanently protected open space. It starkly contrasts the life around its border—a sl

DIY Snow Gauge

Although winter can be cold and dark, it is also a great season to explore and engage with nature in new ways! A fun and easy way to do this is by building your own snow gauge! With a paint stirrer and a few materials, you can measure snowfall and connect

Wanted: Invasive Weeds

It's weed season, Park City! Help our native ecosystem by tackling invasive weeds in your area, or joining in one of Swaner's upcoming volunteer events!

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