The Haskell-Baker Wetlands span approximately 640 acres (2.6 km2) on the south side of Lawrence, Kansas, United States.
Joint owners Baker University, Haskell Indian Nations University, the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks, and the University of Kansas hold 573, 27, 20, and 20 acres (81,000 m2), respectively, of this scenic and ecologically vital habitat. Baker University received its portion from the United States Department of Health, Education, and Welfare in 1968.
In 1969, the National Park Service declared the wetlands a National Natural Landmark. In 1989, the Kansas Biological Survey declared the wetlands an official Natural and Scientific area. The wetlands support 471 documented species of vascular plant, 254 species of bird, and 61 additional vertebrate species.[1]
A proposal for completion of the South Lawrence Trafficway, a realignment of K-10, has generated fierce opposition. Scientists and environmental researchers contend that the trafficway would do irreparable harm to a sensitive ecosystem.[2]
A proposal to mitigate for lost wetlands, loss of pedestrian access, and to reduce noise has been approved by US Army Corps of Engineers, Kansas Department of Transportation, and the Federal Highway Administration.[3]