Beginning 2001 park visitors are treated to some new wildlife viewing opportunities with the completion of a five-acre tidal marsh restoration. DU partnered with the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection, CT Waterfowl Association and the US Fish and Wildlife SErvice to restore this tidal marsh that includes a one-acre warm season grass planting to enhance nesting habitat for waterfowl. The total cost of the project was $109,000 of which DU contributed $2,000. The expense is related to the nature of the project that required the removal of spoil materials for the site. This poject was a big success as black ducks took to the restored marsh almost immediately. Hammonasett Park is visited by thousands of people yearly, making this a very visible project