About the Area
The 3M Wetlands was a massive collaboration between many conservation organizations with the intent to create an urban wildlife area but transforming a former waste-water treatment facility to a functional wetland. Wetland plants immediately began to colonize the area following the restoration without having to be planted! The 3M Wetlands provide a unique opportunity to view wetland-dependent wildlife in an urban setting. With more than 150 bird species spotted on the area, the success of the restoration is quite apparent. The treatment facility’s pump house was converted into a viewing blind overlooking the wetlands.
This area is a great place to look for migrating marshbirds like Sora, Virginia Rail, American Bittern, Least Bittern, and Little Blue Heron. Uncommon waterfowl are also possible on the area, including Ross’s Geese and Cackling Canada Geese. While you are visiting 3M, you may as well visit other natural areas along the MKT Trail, a spur of the larger Katy Trail, including the Forum Nature Area, Hinkson Creek Conservation Area, and the Grindstone Nature Area.
Driving directions: Park at the lot along Forum Blvd. Follow the signs along the MKT Trail to the wetland area.
Continuing along the MKT Trail, you will find the Twin Lakes Recreation Area, as well as the three areas mentioned above. Dining and lodging accommodations can be found in nearby Columbia. While Columbia offers the typical chain restaurants, there are many local favorites as well. For its size, Columbia hosts many art museums and theaters, adding a splash of culture to central Missouri. Residents will also be familiar with the MKT bike trail, which allows foot and bike traffic across the city. Many beautiful parks are also scattered throughout the city and offer birding opportunities in their own right.