Flory-Gemmer Marsh

These nearly-20 acres, located northeast of North Manchester, teem with water birds. A few notable species that have been identified at this site include:

• American Bittern

• Least Bittern

• Blue-winged Teal

• Green-winged Teal

• Common Yellowthroat

• Northern Harrier

• Ring-necked Pheasant

• Least Bittern

• Common Snipe

• Sora

• Common Moorhen

• Sedge Wren

• Eastern Bluebird

• Sandhill Crane

• Green Heron

• Great Blue Heron

A current list of all species observed here can be found on eBird.

In the past, there were no less than three separate attempts to drain the marsh for agriculture. These attempts did not succeed well enough to permit farming. The Flory-Gemmer Marsh is nearing the last stages of restoration. Tile drainage has been plugged, removed and rerouted to maintain consistent water levels. A flood gate structure has also been built at the outlet in the northeast corner of the property. Now that problems with drainage tiles have finally been resolved, it is time to start planning the final steps for restoring this valuable habitat. Eradicating non-native plant species that have infiltrated the marsh during the time it spent with low water levels. Reseeding native species densely enough to outcompete the non-natives and provide food and habitat for wildlife.

We are calling all volunteers to donate in whatever way they can. Follow our progress and become a Friend of Tippe by joining our organization.

See our in-depth story map presentation (below) of all restoration activities at Flory-Gemmer Marsh. You can also click here to open the story map in a new window.