Green Bay Will Restore Wetlands to Reduce Flood Risk

The city plans to transform 11 acres at Emilie Park into a natural buffer to help manage East River stormwater.

Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Safety

Marshy wetlands with native grasses and standing water, crossed by an elevated wooden boardwalk, representing ecological restoration efforts. — Green Bay will invest $2 million to restore 11 acres of wetlands at Emilie Park, creating a functional floodplain to capture East River stormwater. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Green Bay will invest approximately $2 million in a wetland restoration project at Emilie Park to mitigate repetitive flooding along the East River. The project, which is currently about 50 percent funded, involves removing fill material and adding boardwalks to create an effective floodplain.

Why it matters

The initiative aims to address recurring flood risks by enhancing the area's natural ability to capture and store stormwater runoff from the local neighborhood. This effort is part of a broader strategy to improve flood resiliency throughout the city.

The restoration project covers 11 acres of the 13-acre park and relies on three total flood gauges to monitor the East River. City officials are currently waiting for a decision on a $1.4 million grant to supplement existing funding.

The players

Green Bay

This Wisconsin city is the municipality responsible for managing the flood-resiliency projects at Emilie Park and Van Beaver Park.

The details

The project involves removing fill material from the site and constructing boardwalks to facilitate water movement and access. By restoring these wetlands, the city intends to create a functional floodplain that serves as a storage area for stormwater, protecting surrounding properties from the East River.

Final design completion is planned for 2026.
The city aims to put the project out for bid in early 2027.
Construction could begin in the spring or summer of 2027.
A third flood gauge will be installed within the coming year.
The flood warning system could be operational within two years.

Seasonal Patterns

The city's development of a new East River flood warning system follows the National Weather Service's flood warning system standards for monitoring and reporting hydrological data. These infrastructure upgrades mirror a growing trend of municipal investment in natural flood mitigation.

Residents living near the East River should monitor city updates regarding potential road closures during future construction phases at Emilie Park. Property owners can also participate in upcoming public meetings as the city finalizes designs for the new flood warning system.

The takeaway

Restoring natural wetlands provides a sustainable method for city planners to manage excess stormwater and protect residential areas. Investing in these long-term environmental solutions can significantly reduce the potential for property damage during extreme weather events.