Conservation Effort Highlights Wetland Restoration in Lebanon County, Pennsylvania

Introduction

In spring 2025, a significant conservation milestone was achieved in Lebanon County, Pennsylvania. Randy Leisure, a seasoned conservation advocate and former Chairperson of the Lebanon Conservation District, successfully restored 15 acres of wetland on his property through the USDA’s Wetlands Reserve Easement (WRE) program. This initiative aligns closely with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 15 (Life on Land).

Background and Motivation

Randy Leisure and his wife Anne have long been committed to environmental stewardship and the adoption of best conservation practices. Their farm had been on the preservation waitlist for years. Upon learning about the WRE program at a Pennsylvania Association of Conservation Districts (PACD) regional meeting, they identified it as an ideal opportunity to enhance their conservation efforts.

Wetlands Reserve Easement Program and Its Impact

The easement is situated within the Swatara watershed, designated as a National Water Quality Initiative (NWQI) area. The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) focuses cost-share assistance here and collaborates with the US Geological Survey to monitor water quality improvements resulting from conservation practices.

• Water Quality Preservation: Wetlands act as natural filters, improving water quality by trapping sediments and pollutants, supporting SDG 6.
• Flood Risk Management: Wetlands absorb excess rainfall, reducing flood risks and contributing to SDG 13 by enhancing climate resilience.
• Biodiversity Support: Wetlands provide critical habitats for diverse species, advancing SDG 15 by protecting terrestrial ecosystems.

Community Leadership and Ecological Benefits

Randy Leisure’s leadership and dedication to conservation are well recognized among local conservationists and watershed groups. His efforts have significantly contributed to improving the ecological health of the Swatara watershed, setting a precedent for other landowners to engage in wetland restoration and conservation.

Wetland Walk Event: Promoting Awareness and Participation

In May 2025, a Wetland Walk event was organized to celebrate the restoration achievement. The event gathered conservation partners, watershed groups, farmers, landowners, and community members to:

1. Explore the restored wetland easement.
2. Observe the environmental benefits provided by wetland conservation.
3. Discuss the importance of wetlands in sustaining natural resources.
4. Encourage participation in the WRE program and other NRCS conservation initiatives.

Encouraging Broader Engagement

Randy Leisure emphasized the value of community events like the Wetland Walk, stating:

“I would encourage others to take advantage of opportunities like wetlands walk to learn about the benefits of wetland restoration and the WRE program, as well as the many other programs offered by NRCS. Hopefully, they can make a difference and become part of the solution.”

This call to action supports SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) by fostering collaboration among stakeholders to advance environmental sustainability.

Conclusion

The successful restoration of wetlands on Randy Leisure’s property exemplifies the critical role of conservation in achieving sustainable development. By protecting and restoring wetlands, communities contribute to cleaner watersheds, enhanced biodiversity, and climate resilience—ensuring healthier ecosystems for future generations. This project serves as an inspiring model for Pennsylvania and beyond, encouraging widespread adoption of conservation practices aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals.

— USDA NRCS Pennsylvania

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

1. SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
   • The article highlights the role of wetlands in preserving water quality and managing flood risks, directly relating to ensuring availability and sustainable management of water resources.
2. SDG 13: Climate Action
   • Wetland restoration helps manage flood risks, contributing to climate change adaptation and resilience.
3. SDG 15: Life on Land
   • The restoration of wetlands supports biodiversity and ecosystem health, aligning with the goal of sustainably managing forests, combating desertification, halting and reversing land degradation, and halting biodiversity loss.
4. SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
   • The article describes collaboration among USDA, local conservation districts, watershed groups, farmers, and the community, reflecting partnerships to achieve sustainable development.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs Identified

1. SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
   • Target 6.3: Improve water quality by reducing pollution and minimizing the release of hazardous chemicals and materials.
   • Target 6.6: Protect and restore water-related ecosystems, such as wetlands.
2. SDG 13: Climate Action
   • Target 13.1: Strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters.
3. SDG 15: Life on Land
   • Target 15.1: Ensure the conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of terrestrial and inland freshwater ecosystems and their services.
   • Target 15.5: Take urgent action to reduce the degradation of natural habitats and halt biodiversity loss.
4. SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
   • Target 17.17: Encourage and promote effective public, public-private, and civil society partnerships.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

1. Water Quality Indicators
   • The article mentions the National Water Quality Initiative (NWQI) area where the US Geological Survey measures water quality benefits of conservation practices, implying indicators such as pollutant levels, water clarity, or biological oxygen demand.
2. Wetland Area Restored
   • The restoration of 15 acres of wetlands is a quantifiable indicator of progress towards ecosystem restoration targets.
3. Biodiversity and Ecosystem Health
   • Though not explicitly quantified, the article implies monitoring biodiversity and ecological health improvements as indicators of success.
4. Community Engagement and Participation
   • The Wetland Walk event and involvement of various stakeholders serve as qualitative indicators of partnership effectiveness and community awareness.

4. Table of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: morningagclips.com