The Baker Wetlands south of Lawrence will be permanently protected from development under a newly finalized restricted deed covenant, according to a Wednesday announcement from Baker University.
The announcement comes just more than a year after community members learned the university was in talks with developers to sell about 16 acres of wet prairie land for the development of affordable housing. Following a protest on campus and widespread criticism, Baker’s Board of Trustees voted to retain the land.
The new deed “permanently protects the Baker University Wetlands exclusively for educational, research, and conservation purposes,” according to the announcement. It prohibits development on the “nearly 1,000 acres of highly biodiverse upland and riparian habitat that includes over 600 acres of wetlands.”
“This formalized, protective covenant is a key milestone for Baker University to ensure that the wetlands are fully protected and future generations can benefit from the diverse habitat and exceptional environment,” according to the announcement.
Hoot Gibson, Baker president, said in the announcement that the university is thankful for the advocacy of community and staff members.
“We couldn’t be happier with this outcome, which demonstrates the importance of the wetlands to the community, landscape, and region,” Gibson said in the announcement.
The restricted deed covenant is on file with the Douglas County Register of Deeds, according to the announcement.
The Baker Wetlands Discovery Center is open to the public from 9 a.m. to noon and from 1 to 3 p.m. Mondays through Fridays at 1365 North 1250 Road. Learn more on the wetlands website at this link.
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