North Creek Wetland: a valued piece of climate-adaptation infrastructure

New research at the University of Washington Bothell found that the restored North Creek wetland does more than support wildlife. It also helps cool the campus by reducing the urban heat island effect during the hottest parts of the day.

Using drone-based thermal imaging, researchers discovered that the wetland lowers surface temperatures more effectively than previously measured by satellite data. The findings highlight wetland restoration as a practical and cost-effective strategy for creating cooler, more climate-resilient cities.

The project also gave students hands-on experience in environmental research, allowing them to collect and analyze real-world climate data while contributing to a study with meaningful community impact.

Learn more about undergraduate research opportunities and discover how students can get involved in research that makes a difference.