Transcript MnRAM 3.0 Database Training

MnRAM 3.3 Database Training
Visual Guidance
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Contents of this slideshow
• Database information
– Download MnRAM software
– Get started entering data
– Various reports
• Using MnRAM
– Field/office procedures
– Step by step through all the questions
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Disclaimer
• 3.3 is in beta release—not yet fully tested (although much
improved over 3.2).
• Your comments are welcome.
• If you don’t see a soil type, watershed, or other item you
expect in a drop-down list, contact us.
• MnRAM is being improved all the time. Planning for
Version 4.0 has already begun.
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Downloading MnRAM 3.3
www.bwsr.state.mn.us/wetlands/mnram/index.html
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Data Collection Procedures
• Plan ahead to ensure
quality data.
• Comprehensive
Guidance covers:
– Procedures for an actual
inventory.
– Map notation, GIS labeling,
managing incoming field
data, etc.
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Data Collection Procedures, cont.
• Collect background documentation:
– Site survey, hydrology, topography,
aerial photos, soils data
• Review other project information
• Enter all Wetland IDs
• Answer certain marked questions:
– Database red highlighted
– Excel fieldsheet italicized
– Text version “~” in left margin
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Entering Data: Getting Started
•
•
•
•
Start on the General Information tab.
Project name and Watershed.
Other location data is optional.
Size of existing and original size of wetland
(anything = zero, enter “0.0001”).
• Record special notes and purpose of assessment.
(See next slide for screen view and animated highlights)
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Entering area data
• Formula
calculations
require area
data.
• If the current
size is zero,
enter 0.0001.
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Using MnRAM
• Next set of slides for manual and digital users.
• Some data recording differs in manual versus
database version, esp. in vegetation portion.
• General order of slides will be:
– Text of question
– Guidance for that question
– Visual guide to special issues
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Special Features tab
• Check all that apply.
• Use scroll bar to see lower portion of page:
Some special features “bump” a wetland into an
Exceptional rating. Others are for record-keeping.
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Special Features in detail, a-f
Is the wetland part of, or directly adjacent to, an area of special natural resource interest?
Check those that apply:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
____ Designated trout streams or trout lakes (see MnDNR Commissioners Order 2450
Part 6262.0400 subparts 3 and 5) (If yes, Fishery Habitat Rating is Exceptional).
____ Calcareous fen (Special Status see MN Rule Chapter 7050) (If yes, Vegetative
Diversity/Integrity functional rating is Exceptional) Consult MN DNR for regulatory
purposes.
____ Designated scientific and natural area (If yes, then
Aesthetics/Recreation/Education/Cultural functional rating is Exceptional).
____ Rare natural community (refer to MnDNR County Biological Survey/Natural
Heritage)(If yes, Vegetative Diversity/Integrity is Exceptional, also if question 36 is yes and
Wildlife Habitat functional rating is Exceptional);
____ High priority wetland, environmentally sensitive area or environmental corridor
identified in a local water management plan,
____ Public park, forest, trail or recreation area.
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Special Features in detail, g-m
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Special Features in detail, n-u
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In the field
• Equipment:
– Laptop/tablet
– Field sheets
– GPS
• References
– Site, topo map
– aerials
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#1: Identify Plant Communities
• Up to five communities may be listed.
• Each community’s contribution to the whole wetland
is counted as a percentage of 100%.
• Communities less than 10% are not counted*.
*With one exception (see next slide)
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#1:
Identify
Communities
#3: Rate
PlantPlant
Communities
• Rate
Key quality
out plant
ofcommunities:
each community:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Floodplain forest, 3B – High
– High
Sedge meadow, 13A [10%
rule exception for shallow, open water: any fringe emergent
community]
Shrub-carr, 8B – High
Unsure after seeing the
ratings? Reconsider
Shallow, open water, 16A – High
your classification.
Shallow marsh, 13B – High
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2
4
3
5
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#1: Identify
#3: Rate
~ Plant
Communities ~
• # 1 Identify communities.
• Fill in Cowardin and Circular 39 ratings for
each community.
• #3 Rate each community for quality.
#2 is a separate table...
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#2: Dominant Species/Cover class
Identify the dominant species that make up at least 10%
coverage…
Click here for a drop-down Cover Category list…
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#2: Dominant Species drop-down list
• Look up species by common/group name or
by scientific name.
• Click the Display Name Toggle to alternate.
• Don’t try to list every plant.
• Use the <3% cover
class only for rare or
invasive species.
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Field Worksheet: Side 1
• On the Excel
worksheet, each
community has its
own section.
• You enter cover
class and invasives,
as well as
community quality.
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#2: Dominant species
• Text version: list by community
– Each community has a space for the dominants
or invasive plants
• Digital version: one list for entire site
– No breakdown by community
– List the dominant plants from the entire site
• Whether text or database, this list is for
record-keeping only: species entries do not
affect ratings
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#2: Cattail Key/Table
• For help distinguishing among native,
invasive, and hybrid cattail, click on the
Key (for a written description) or Table
(summary version).
(click for image)
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#4-5: Rare or endangered vegetation
4. Y N Are state or federally listed rare plant species or
species found or known to be found recently?
If Special Features questions d or i [rare natural community and rare
plant species] are answered yes, then this question is yes and Vegetative
Diversity function is Exceptional.
5. Y N Is the wetland plant community scarce or rare
within the watershed, imperiled (S2), or critically
imperiled (S1).?
Yes if Special Features question b is answered yes. If the wetland
community identified in Question #1 is 3A (not dominated by silver
maple), 4A, 4B, 7A, 7B, 10A, 13A, 13B (mixed emergent marsh not
dominated by cattails), 14A, 15A, AND has a High quality rating from
Question #2, then this question is yes and Vegetation function is
Exceptional; otherwise continue with following questions.
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#5 Guidance, rare community
Guidance: The Mn DNR Natural Heritage Program collects, manages,
and interprets information about nongame animals, native plants, and
plant communities to promote the wise stewardship of these resources.
The Natural Heritage Program has developed a ranking system that is
intended to reflect the extent and condition of natural communities and
species in Minnesota. These ‘state ranks’ have no legal ramifications,
they are used by the Natural Heritage Program to set priorities for
research and for conservation planning. They are grouped as follows:
State Element Rank:
S1: Critically imperiled in the state because of extreme rarity.
S2: Imperiled in state because of rarity.
S3: Rare or uncommon in state.
S4: Apparently secure in state.
S5: Demonstrably secure in state.
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#6: Pre-European-settlement Condition
Y N Does the wetland represent preEuropean-settlement conditions? (e.g. MnDNR
Native Plant Communities publication)
If yes, then Vegetation function is Exceptional
(continue to answer subsequent questions).
Created wetlands would not qualify, regardless of
quality.
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Formula: Vegetative Integrity/Diversity
There are four ways to report this function:
Individual Community Scores: maintain raw data as
recorded.
Highest Quality Community: report the highestfunctioning community.
Non-Weighted Average Quality of all Communities:
straight average
Weighted Average Quality Based on Percentage of
Each Community: multiply each community rating
by its percentage, then add all together.
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Field Worksheet: Side 2
MNRAM 3.0 Wetland Assessment Methodology Score Sheet
• Four columns per sheet
• One wetland per column
or
• Same wetland, different assumptions (one as-is,
another as expected, etc.)
• Watch ratings! You might circle High when the
answer you want give is called “Low” on the
worksheet.
Date:
Wet ID _________
Wet ID _________
Wet ID _________
Wet ID _________
MnRAM
#
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Question Description
Hydrogeomorphology and Topography (circle one)
Maximum Water Depth (inches) : % inundation
Local Watershed Area--immediate drainage (acres)
Estimated size of existing wetland (acres)
SOILS: Upland/Wetland (survey classification +
site)
Outlet characteristics for flood retention
Outlet characteristics for hydrologic regime
Dominant upland land use
Soil condition (wetland)
Rating
Rating
Rating
Rating
Depressional/Isolated,
Depress'l/Flow-through,
Depress'l/Tributary,
Riverine, Lacustrine,
Peatland, Floodplain,
Slope, Other
:
Depressional/Isolated,
Depress'l/Flow-through,
Depress'l/Tributary,
Riverine, Lacustrine,
Peatland, Floodplain,
Slope, Other
:
Depressional/Isolated,
Depress'l/Flow-through,
Depress'l/Tributary,
Riverine, Lacustrine,
Peatland, Floodplain,
Slope, Other
:
Depressional/Isolated,
Depress'l/Flow-through,
Depress'l/Tributary,
Riverine, Lacustrine,
Peatland, Floodplain,
Slope, Other
:
H
F-T: Emergent vegetation (% cover)
Flow-through emerg. veg. (roughness coefficient)
Sediment delivery
Upland soils (based on soil group)
Stormwater runoff pretreatment & detention
Subwatershed wetland density
Channels/sheet flow
Upland buffer average width (feet)
Upland area management
(% of each, minimum 20%)
M
L
N/A
H
M
L
H M
L
H M
L
H
____ %
H M
L
H M
L
H M
L
H M
L
H M
L
H M
L
____ feet
H
M
L
M
L
N/A
H
M
L
H M
L
H M
L
____ %
H M
L
H M
L
H M
L
H M
L
H M
L
H M
L
____ feet
H
M
L
Upland area diversity and structure
(% percent of each)
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Upland area slope
(% in each category)
H
M
H
M
L
L
H
M
H
M
L
L
M
L
N/A
H
M
L
H M
L
H M
L
H
____ %
H M
L
H M
L
H M
L
H M
L
H M
L
H M
L
____ feet
H
M
L
(click to see the sheet)
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H
H
H
M
M
____ %
H M
L
H M
L
H M
L
H M
L
H M
L
H M
L
____ feet
H
M
L
L
L
M
L
N/A
H
M
L
H M
L
H M
L
H
M
H
M
L
L
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Field Worksheet: useful tips
• The italicized questions require maps or
other data to be answered.
• Every other question is formatted as bold
just to make it easier to read.
• If the question asks for a percentage of
H-M-L, put the percentage of each under
the correct heading: H
M
L
20%
60%
20%
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#7: Topographic data
Describe the hydrogeomorphology of the wetland and associated
topography (check those that apply):
___ Depressional/Isolated (no discernable outlets)
___ Depressional/Flow-through (apparent inlet and outlet)
___ Depressional/Tributary (outlet but no perennial inlet or
drainage entering from upstream subwatershed)
___ Riverine (within the river/stream banks)
___ Lacustrine Fringe (edge of deepwater areas)/Shoreland
___ Extensive Peatland/Organic Flat
___ Slope
___ Floodplain (outside waterbody banks)
Stormwater pond
___ Other ________________________
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#8-10: Site data
8. Approximate maximum depth of standing water
in the wetland (inches): ______
Percent of wetland area inundated: ______%
9. What is the estimated area of the wetland's
immediate drainage area in acres?_____
10. Wetland size.
This information should have been entered on the
General Information page. The number remains as a placeholder.
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#11: Soils data
•
Survey Classification(s):
–
–
Adjacent upland (within 500 feet)
Wetland area
click for image of soil data website
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MnRAM Rating Questions
• The text in the following slides has been
edited to fit.
• Starting with #12, questions are answered
(generally) by filling in A-B-C.
• Each question has guidance to assist the user
in interpreting the question and understanding
how to answer in difficult site conditions…
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Guidance, how to
• For help with individual
questions, click the “?”…
…then use
the scroll
bar to read
the text:
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Guidance, purpose of
• Explains the intent of the question.
• Suggests examples of how to answer given
certain conditions.
• Points out common errors or
misconceptions about that particular
question.
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#12: Outlet/Flood retention
For depressional wetlands, describe the wetland surface and subsurface
outlet characteristics as it relates to the wetland’s ability to detain
runoff and/or store floodwater.
High = No surface or subsurface outlet, or a restricted outlet at or greater than
2 feet higher than the wetland boundary
Medium = Swale, channel, weir, or other large, surface outlet (>18 inch pipe)
with outflow elevation 0-2 feet above the wetland boundary, subsurface
tile with no surface inlet.
Low = Wetland outflow elevation below the wetland boundary with either a
high capacity surface outlet (swale, channel, weir, pipe >18 inch
diameter, etc…) or a subsurface outlet (drain tile) with a surface inlet.
N/A = Not applicable for floodplain, slope, lacustrine, riverine, and extensive
peatland/flat wetlands.
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#13: Outlet/hydrologic regime
Describe the wetland surface and subsurface outlet
characteristics as it relates to the wetland hydrologic
regime:
High = No outlet ,natural outlet condition, or a constructed outlet at the
historic outflow elevation; no evidence of subsurface drainage (drain
tile).
Medium = Constructed, reduced capacity outlet below the top of the temporary
wet meadow zone; moderate indications of subsurface drainage; outlet
raised above the wet meadow zone if managed to mimic natural
conditions; watercourse has been recently ditched/channelized.
Low = Excavated or enlarged outlet constructed below the bottom of the wet
meadow zone; strong indications of subsurface drainage; outlet removes
most/all long-term and temporary storage; or outlet changes hydrologic
regime drastically.
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#12&13 Guidance: outlet characteristics
The ability of a wetland to maintain a hydrologic regime characteristic of the wetland
type is somewhat dependent upon whether a natural outlet is present, or whether an
outlet has been constructed or modified by humans. Constructed outlets can
significantly diminish the ability of a wetland to provide temporary and long-term
water retention, and thus its ability to maintain its characteristic hydrologic regime.
If the constructed
changes
the wetland
tofor the
Wetlands
with natural outletsoutlet
are functioning
at the highest
level possible
type within the wetland comparison domain, and should be rated high. Constructed
non-wetland
or to wetland
deepwater
habitat
or rated
from
outlets
above the temporary
(wet meadow)
zone are
medium if
managed to mimic natural conditions. Constructed outlets, either surface or
saturated
conditions
to openwet
water
orzone
from
open
subsurface,
below
the top of the temporary
meadow
reduce
the ability of
the wetland to provide temporary and long-term water retention; if a constructed
water
to saturated
is rated
low.
outlet
is present
below the topthen
of the it
temporary
wetland
zone, but is such that the
wetland is able to provide some temporary and long-term water retention (i.e. the
wetland is only partially drained), the rating should be medium. Constructed
outlets, either surface or subsurface, which remove most or all temporary and longterm retention capabilities, significantly reduce the ability of the wetland to
maintain its characteristic hydrologic regime; the rating should be low. Constructed
outlets that keep open water wetlands open water or keep saturated wetlands
saturated are rated medium.
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#12: Outlet for Flood
How well can this wetland keep water in?
(The more, the better.)
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#13: Outlet for hydrologic regime
How natural is this wetland’s outlet?
(Less human intervention = better.)
• H – only for natural outlet conditions
• M – constructed outlets, no hydro. change
• L – changed hydrology (higher or lower)
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# 14: Upland conditions
Describe the dominant land use and condition of the immediate upland
drainage area of wetland or within 500 feet of the wetland if the
subwatershed area is not known:
High = Watershed conditions essentially unaltered; < 10% impervious (i.e. low
density residential, >1 acre lots); land use development minimal, idle
lands, lands in hay or forests or low intensity grazing.
Medium = Watershed conditions somewhat modified; e.g., 10–30 %
impervious (i.e. medium density residential, 1/3 to 1 acre lots); moderate
intensity grazing or haying with some bare ground; conventional till with
residue management on moderate slopes, no-till on steep slopes.
Low = Watershed conditions highly modified; e.g., >30 % impervious
surfaces (i.e. high density residential, lots smaller than 1/3 acre,
industrial, commercial, high impervious institutional) maximizing
overland flow to the wetland; intensive agriculture or grazing with a high
amount of bare ground, no residue management on moderate or steep
slopes, intensive mining activities.
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#14 Guidance, dominant upland land use
Overland flow affects wetland flood storage capabilities and overland flow is
affected by changes in upstream vegetative communities. Upland land use
within the watershed contributing to the wetland (as defined in Question
#9) and the watershed size have a significant influence on the flow of
runoff and sediments to the wetland, and thus the ability of the wetland to
desynchronize flood flows and maintain its characteristic hydrologic
regime. The more developed and intensively the watershed is used, the
greater the delivery of runoff and sediments to the wetland is likely to be
and the more likely the wetland will have the opportunity to minimize
flooding downstream. With increased runoff and sediment delivery, the
wetland will be less likely to maintain its characteristic hydrologic regime.
As the proportion of the impervious watershed area increases, runoff
volume and rate increases along with sediment concentrations.
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#14: Immediate upland land use
• H = unaltered
• M = 10-30% impervious
• L = >30% impervious
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#15: Wetland soil condition
Describe the conditions of the wetland soils:
High = There are no signs or only minor evidence of recent disturbance or
alteration to the wetland soils; temporary wetland wet meadow zone
intact; idle land, hayed or lightly to moderately grazed or logged.
Minimal compaction, rutting, trampling, or excavation damage to
wetland.
Medium = Moderate evidence of disturbance or alteration to the wetland soils.
Temporary wet meadow zone tilled or heavily grazed most years. Zones
wetter than temporary receive tillage occasionally. Some compaction,
rutting, trampling, or excavation in wetland is evident.
Low = Evidence of significant disturbance or alteration to the wetland soils.
Wetland receives conventional tillage most (>75%) years; or otherwise
significantly impacted (e.g., fill, sediment deposits, cleared, excavated).
Severe compaction, rutting, trampling, or excavation damage to wetland.
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#15 Guidance, Wetland soil conditions
The condition of the soils in the wetland affects the
vegetation within the wetland, and thus the
relationships affecting ground-water discharge,
recharge, and evapotranspiration. The more
intensively the wetland is used (i.e. tillage,
excavation, vehicle traffic, pedestrian or livestock
usage), the more likely these relationships are to be
impacted, and the more likely the ability of the
wetland to maintain its characteristic hydrologic
regime will be reduced.
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#16: Wetland vegetation
For flow-through wetlands, enter the proportion of
the wetland that is vegetated with emergent,
submergent, or floating-leaved vegetation.
______% (High = Dense vegetative cover >75%, or isolated
wetlands with outlet above wetland boundary;
Medium = Combination of some unvegetated open water and
vegetative cover 25 - 75%;
Low = Primarily unvegetated open water or vegetative cover
<25%; or
N/A = Not applicable, if wetland is isolated enter 0.
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#16 Guidance, wetland vegetation
Wetland
is assessed
here
two related
properties:
2)
NutrientVegetation
Uptake/Cycling.
Ability
to for
uptake,
metabolize,
sequester and/or remove nutrients and imported elements from the
1) Water/Vegetation
Proportions
and Interspersion.
Rooted
water
is primarily dependent
on wetland
vegetative conditions.
vegetation
in flow-through
wetlands slows
floodwaters
by
Microbial
processing
and
bioaccumulation
are
associated
with
creating frictional drag in proportion to stem density, more
plant cover.
density
can serve
an index
of primary
or less Vegetative
according to
vegetation
coverastype
and interspersion.
production,
Flow-through
which iswetlands
an indicator
withofrelatively
nutrient low
assimilation.
proportions
Wetlands
of
open
water
to rooted
vegetation
andsoils
lowand
interspersion
of
take up
metals
both
by adsorption
in the
by plant uptake
and
rooted
vegetation
are more
capable of altering
via thewater
roots.
They
allow
metabolism
of
oxygen-demanding
flood flows. Dense stands of rooted vegetation, including
materials
can reduce
fecal coliform
populations.
are
trees,and
shrubs,
and herbaceous
emergent
are morePollutants
capable of
often slowing
buried byfloodwater
depositionthan
of newer
open water
plant material,
alone. isolating them
in the sediments.
(click for next)
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#17: Detention of floodwater
For flow-through wetlands, describe the roughness coefficient
of the potential surface floodwater flowpath in relation
to wetland vegetation biomass, numeric density and
plant morphology:
High = Dense bushy willow, heavy stand of timber with downed
trees, or mature field crops with flow at half or less of crop
height
Medium = Dense grass with rigid stems, weeds, tree seedlings, or
brushy vegetation where flows can be 2-3 times the height
of the vegetation.
Low = Primarily flexible turf grass or other supple vegetative
cover or unvegetated
N/A = Not applicable if wetland is isolated.
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#17 Guidance, floodwater detention of
F-T wetlands
Forest cover and other woody stems increase surface roughness resulting in an
increased detention of high flows. The cumulative effect is reduced peak
flows downstream. A forest (i.e. ash, boxelder, red maple, conifers) with a
dense understory is best for detaining high flows. Without a forest present,
woody shrubs (i.e. alder, willow, red osier dogwood) can be extremely
effective but lose effectiveness once high flows approach and exceed the
woody shrub height. Dense, non-woody vegetation (i.e. cattails, reed
canarygrass) are effective at detaining minor flood flows but lay down to
higher flows and the surface roughness greatly diminishes. Turf grass and
other supple vegetation has minimal effects on flood flows. Open water
wetlands with submergent and scattered emergent vegetation are part of the
channel characteristics and have minimal effect on detaining flood flows.
The Manning’s roughness coefficient decreases as water depth increases
above the macorphytes and other surface roughness characteristics. Dense,
robust, tall vegetation is best for floodplains.
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#18: Sediment delivery
Describe the extent of observable/historical sediment delivery to the
wetland from anthropogenic sources including agriculture:
High = No evidence of sediment delivery to wetland.
Med. = Minor evidence of accelerated sediment delivery in the form of
stabilized deltas, sediment fans
Low = Major sediment delivery evidenced by buried detritus and/or
vegetation along outer edge of temporary wetland (wet meadow) zone.
Recent deltas, sediment plumes, etc. in areas of concentrated flow or
sedimentation raising bottom elevation of wetland.
Guidance: Wetlands filled by sediment will have reduced capacity to store stormwater.
Land use, ground slope, and erodibility characteristics of the soils affect potential
sediment delivery.
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#16-18: Flow-Through Wetlands
#16: Percent vegetated
#17: Roughness coefficient
#18: Sediment delivery
Direct stormwater inputs,
mostly from residential.
Darker areas are open-water. The
remaining vegetation is assessed
for its ability to slow water.
Outline of wetland area.
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#19: Upland watershed soils
Describe the predominant upland soils within the wetland’s
immediate drainage area which affect the overland flow
characteristics to the wetland:
High = Clays or shallow to bedrock (Hydrologic soil groups C, D,
A/D, B/D, C/D)
Medium = Silts or loams (Hydrologic soil group B)
Low = Sands (Hydrologic soil group A)
Guidance: Watershed Soils. Greater runoff and higher flood peaks occur in
watersheds having primarily impermeable soils. These types of soils
impede water infiltration and so produce increased runoff.
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#20: Stormwater runoff
Describe the characteristics of stormwater, wastewater, or concentrated
agricultural runoff detention/water quality treatment prior to discharging
into the wetland:
High = Receives significant volumes of untreated/undetained stormwater runoff,
wastewater, or concentrated agricultural runoff directly, in relation to the wetland
size.
Medium = Receives moderate volumes of directed stormwater runoff, wastewater, or
concentrated agricultural runoff in relation to wetland size, which has received
some treatment (sediment removal) and runoff detention.
Low = Does not receive directed stormwater runoff,
wastewater, or concentrated agricultural runoff;
receives small volumes of one or more of these
sources in relation to wetland size; or stormwater is
treated to approximately the standards of the
National Urban Runoff Program (NURP); and
runoff rates controlled to nearly predevelopment
conditions.
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#20 Guidance, Stormwater runoff
pretreatment and detention
These ratings apply to both Flood/Stormwater Storage and Attenuation and
Downstream and Wetland Water Quality Protection. When used for
determining water quality characteristics, the ratings are reversed (i.e. High
shown above will equal Low).
Wetlands receiving undetained, directed stormwater from developed areas
generally provide a higher functional level for flood/stormwater storage
than do similar wetlands receiving stormwater at rates of, and with water
quality equivalent to, that prior to development.
A NURP pond is most easily identified by having a 10-ft wide, nearly flat shelf just
below the normal water level and will be 4 to 10 ft deep. Typically, these ponds will
have a wet surface area approximately equal to 1 or 2% of the watershed area.
Ponds that remove sediment only are typically smaller with a depth of 4 ft or less.
The high rating equates with direct pipe discharge into the wetland and runoff rates,
which will likely increase the water level in the wetland significantly.
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#21:Wetland density
Describe density of wetlands within the subwatershed (the 5,600 DNR
minor watersheds as defined in Minnesota Rules 8420.0110, Subp. 31)
and the opportunity for contributing to floodwater detention[:
High = Wetlands make up less than 10% of the subwatershed area.
Medium = Wetlands make up 10-20% of the subwatershed.
Low = Wetlands make up more than 20% of the subwatershed.
Guidance: The density of wetlands in the subwatershed will determine the
benefit each provides downstream. Wetlands reduce flood peaks up to 75
percent compared to rolling topography when they occupy only 20
percent of the total basin.23 When wetland densities in the subwatershed
exceed 20% total cover, the flood storage benefits of additional wetlands
rapidly decrease.
54
54
#21: Subwatershed wetland density
From NWI or quad map…
High = <10%
Medium = 10-20%
Low = >20%
In a low-density area, existing
wetlands are less dispensable.
55
55
#22: Channelization
Describe the functional level of the wetland in
retarding or altering flows based on the
surface flow characteristics through the
wetland:
High = No channels present
Medium = Channels present, but not connected,
or meandering channels
Low = Channels connecting inlet to outlet
56
56
#22 Guidance, channels/sheet flow
Channels are formed in the underlying substrate, not just as paths
through emergent vegetation. Sheet flow, rather than channel
flow, offers greater frictional resistance. The potential for
floodflow desynchronization is greater when water flows
through the wetland as sheet flow. Connecting channels will
carry water directly from the inlet to the outlet preferentially in
the channel. Channels not connected indicate that some
channelized flow may occur within the wetland but not all the
way through the wetland via a single
channel; some sheet flow will occur. No
channels present represents wetlands in
which water from the inlet will spread out
over the wetland to the outlet.
57
57
#23–26: Upland area quality
• Estimate buffer width
– only count naturalized area as “buffer”
This is the upland area
– take the average around the entire site
• Qualify
This is the
upland
area (not just “buffer”; see demo)
“naturalized buffer” width
– 50 ft ring (>20%)
– %High + %Medium + %Low = 100%
58
58
#23: Buffer width
Upland Buffer width: Average width of the
naturalized buffer:_____feet [Default maximum = 500’]
Guidance: Vegetated buffers around wetlands provide
multiple benefits including wildlife habitat, erosion
protection, and a reduction in surface water runoff.
A buffer is an unmanicured upland area
immediately adjacent to the wetland boundary. For
this question, do not include lawn areas. If the
buffer varies from one side to another, take the
average width over the entire perimeter.
59
59
#23 Guidance, buffer width
Widths for
Water Quality
Wildlife Habitat
High = >50 ft
High = >300 ft
Med. = 25 – 50 ft
Med. = 50 – 300 ft
Low = <25 ft
Low = <50 ft
60
60
Upland area: general guide
To score the next three questions, consider a 50foot ring around the wetland.
Describe the condition of each category.
You do not need to measure exactly—use a 20%
minimum for faster evaluation (i.e. if it doesn’t
measure at least 20%, you don’t need to count it).
Total should equal 100%.
61
61
Upland Area Demo
Veg. Cover (WQ):
80% Low—cropped/bare, paved
20% Medium—mowed vegetation
50 ft.
Diversity/structure
100% Low—paved, sparse veg
Slope:
20% Low: steep slope (>12%)
60% Medium: moderate (6-12%)
20% High: gentle (0-6%)
Remember, there can
be a 20% threshold.
62
62
#24: Upland area management
Upland Area Management: average condition of vegetative
cover for water quality.
____% High: Full vegetative cover
____% Medium: Manicured, primarily vegetated (i.e. short-grass
lawn, clippings left in place)
____% Low: Lack of vegetation: bare soil or cropped, unfenced
pasture, rip-rap, impervious/pavement.
Guidance: This question refers to the 50 feet of upland
surrounding the wetland (unlike the shoreland wetland
vegetation question, which refers to the vegetation within
the wetland itself). Maintenance may include mowing,
haying, spraying or burning.
Remember, there can
63
be a 20% threshold.
63
#25: Upland Area Diversity and
Structure
Upland Area Diversity & Structure (composition of
characteristics for habitat)
_% High: Full coverage of native non-invasive vegetation
_% Medium: Mixed native/non-native vegetation, moderate
density coverage, OR dense non-native cover.
_% Low: Sparse vegetation and/or impervious surfaces.
Guidance: Many wetland-associated wildlife utilize upland areas
for breeding, nesting, and foraging activities. Quality of the
upland will affect the diversity and stability of the wetland
wildlife community. This question combines estimates of
both diversity and density—most wetlands will fall in the
middle.
64
64
Difference between #24 and #25
• Upland area management (#24) measures
the amount of any vegetative cover. This is
important for water quality.
• Upland Diversity & Structure (#25)
measures the quality of that cover as habitat
for native species.
65
65
#26: Upland Slope
Upland Slope
____% High: 0-6% (gentle slopes)
____% Medium: >6-12% (moderate slopes)
____% Low: >12% (steep slopes)
Guidance: Gentle slopes are associated with
greater use by wildlife and also are less likely
to erode. This measurement is best estimated
on site.
66
66
Slope demo
A steep
slope: slope:
A moderate
• High = 0-6%
• High = 0-6%
• Medium = 6-12%
• Medium = 6-12%
• Low = >12%
• Low = >12%
% slope = (10 inches/100 inches) x 100 = 10% slope
67
67
#27: Water Quality Protection
(downstream resource)
Describe the proximity of the first recreational lake,
recreational watercourse, spawning area or
significant fishery, or water supply source downgradient of the wetland:
High = One or more resource within 0.5 mile
downstream via any form of channel, pipe, or
isolated wetlands.
Medium = One or more resource within 0.5 to 2 miles
downstream.
Low = No significant resources are located within 2
miles downstream.
68
68
#27 Guidance, WQ protection
(downstream sensitivity)
The water quality function wetlands provide help
disperse the physical, chemical and biological
impacts of pollution in downstream waters. Sensitive
water resources located within 0.5 miles downstream
of the wetland will realize the greatest benefit to
water quality from the wetland. As discharges from
the wetland move farther downstream, the benefits to
water quality provided by the wetland will continue
to diminish.
69
69
#27 demo: water quality protection
(downstream resource)
Aerial view
Topo view
• High = One or more resource within ½ mile
All these wetlands are upstream of Lake Johanna
• Medium = …within 0.5 - 2 miles
• Low = > 2 miles
70
70
#28: Nutrient loading
Does the wetland water quality and/or plant community
exhibit signs of excess nutrient loading:
High = No evidence of excess nutrient loading or nutrient sources
(e.g. evidence of diverse, native vegetative community, no
pipes, etc.).
Medium = Some evidence of excess nutrient loading source and
evidence of plant communities such as dense stands of reed
canary grass or narrowleaf, and/or blue (hybrid) cattail.
Low = Strong evidence of excess nutrient loading such as algal
mats present or evidence of excessive emergent, submergent
macrophyte
growth.
(e.g. evidence
of
Thisand/or
ratingfloating
is used in
the formula
for wetland
water quality
concentrated
as pipes,
etc.) for downstream
maintenance
and,flow
withsuch
the rating
reversed,
water quality protection.
71
71
#28 Guidance, nutrient loading
Excessive nutrient loading to a wetland can
cause nuisance algal blooms and the
production of monotypic stands of invasive or
weed species. Observed point source or
nonpoint source of nutrients may include but is
not limited to: fertilized lawns, agricultural
runoff, manure storage or spreading,
concentrated stormwater runoff, or pet waste
inputs.
72
72
#29: Shoreline wetland?
Y N Is the wetland fringing deepwater habitat, a
lake, or adjacent to a watercourse?
If NO, enter "not applicable" for this function in the
Summary Table and skip to Question 35 [remove
from computation of Shoreline Protection function.]
If YES, answer the following questions.
73
73
#29 Guidance, shoreline wetlands
Shoreline Protection function only applies to wetlands that fringe
lakes, deepwater, and along creeks and other watercourses.
These include lacustrine wetlands, lacking trees, shrubs,
persistent emergents, mosses or lichens with greater than 30%
areal coverage; and >20 acres in size or fringing deepwater
habitats which are defined as <20 acres in size, but either
greater than 6.6 ft deep at the deepest, or has a wave-formed
shoreline. The wetland portion is typically the area < 6.6 ft
deep.
Also included are floodplain/riverine systems that may
experience frequent water level fluctuations and/or erosive
forces.
74
74
#30: Rooted Shoreline Vegetation
Enter the percent cover of rooted shoreline wetland
vegetation.
______% (High = Macrophyte cover in the wetland >50%;
Medium = Macrophyte cover in the wetland is 10 - 50%;
Low = Macrophyte cover in the wetland <10%.)
Guidance: The erosive strength of waves and currents can be
greatly dissipated by a dense vegetation cover including
submerged macrophytes. The greater the vegetation density,
the greater the shoreline protection.
75
75
#31: Wetland width
Enter the average wetland width in feet
between the shoreline/streambank and
deep water/stream:
_____ feet; (High = Wetland width >30 ft;
Medium = Wetland width 10-30 ft;
Low = Wetland width <10 ft)
76
76
#32 Guidance, wetland width
Wetlands with wide stands of vegetation are more likely
to stabilize sediments than those with narrow stands.
Knutson et al. (1981) found that wetlands wider than
30 feet reduced wave energy by 88% while emergent
wetlands less than 6 feet wide were relatively
ineffective in wave buffering.
Measure width starting from the deepwater edge up to
the normal water’s edge, not to include the shore area
up out of the water itself (the shore-area wetland is
considered in Question #34).
77
77
#32: Emergent vegetation
Describe the emergent vegetation type and resistance within
the shoreline wetland:
High = Dominance of emergent species with strong stems present
all year and/or dense root mats in the wash zone (e.g.
cattails, shrubs) that are resistant to erosive forces.
Medium = Presence of some emergent species with strong stems
or dominance of weak-stemmed emergent species persisting
most of the year and/or moderately dense root mats in the
wash zone (e.g. bulrushes, grasses) that are resistant to
erosive forces.
Low = Presence of some weak-stemmed emergent species and/or
no dense root mats in the wash zone (e.g. rushes).
78
78
#32 Guidance, emergent veg.
The erosive strength of waves and currents can be greatly
dissipated by a dense, emergent vegetation cover. In addition,
species with stronger stems will provide greater protection
than weak-stemmed species. The greater the vegetation
density, the greater the shoreline protection.
Some of the more common species with potentially high value for shoreline
anchoring include: sweetflag (Acorus calamus), speckled alder (Alnus
rugosa), blue joint grass (Calamagrostis canadensis), sedges (Carex spp.),
red-osier dogwood (Cornus stolonifera), spike rush (Eleocharis palustris),
scouring rush (Equisetum fluviatile), rice cutgrass (Leersia oryzoides),
switchgrass (Panicum virgatum), reed canary grass (Phalaris arundinacea),
common reed (Phragmites communis), smartweeds (Polygonum spp.),
pickerelweed (Pontederia cordata), cottonwood (Populus deltoides),
arrowhead (Sagittaria spp.), willow (Salix spp.), bulrushes (Scirpus spp.),
cordgrass (Spartina spp.), and cattail (Typha spp.).
79
79
#33: Shoreline erosion
Describe the
shoreline
erosion
potential
the site:
Wetlands
located
in areas
with
strong at
currents
and
wave action have the greatest potential for
High = Strong wave action or water current (greatest wind fetch on a lake or
outside river
bend); frequent
boat traffic and restrictions
that funnel
protecting
shoreline.
Shorelines
composed
of
boats into narrow passages; sandy soils or evidence of erosion or slope
failure.
sandy
or
erodible
soils
will
benefit
the
most
from
Medium = Moderate wave action or water current (small lakes or large ponds);
moderatewetland
boat traffic with
some evidence or potential for erosion or
shoreline
protection.
slope failure.
Low = Negligible erosive forces (little open water or wave action or slowmoving, straight river); minimal to no boat traffic or no-wake
zone; no evidence of past erosion or slope failure.
80
80
#34: Bank protection
Describe the shoreline/streambank vegetation conditions up
slope from the water level in relation to the ability to
protect the bank from erosion or slope failure:
•
•
•
High = Lack of vegetation; regularly manicured, short-grass
lawn.
Medium = Full vegetative cover composed of shrubs
receiving only moderate maintenance or grasses/understory
vegetation that is not manicured.
Low = Deep-rooted vegetation not actively manicured (e.g.
trees, native shrubs and grasses), or rip-rap.
81
81
#34 Guidance, Bank Protection Ability
The potential for erosion and/or slope failure of
shoreline or streambank areas is also dependent on
the land use and condition on the slope above the
water level and on top of the bank. Bare soils or those
with shallow rooted grasses that are manicured on a
regular basis provide less protection than deep-rooted
native grasses allowed to grow naturally. For this
question, consider that part of the wetland starting at
the water’s edge up to the upland edge, to encompass
the shore area up out of the water itself (the waterlevel wetland is considered in Question #31).
82
82
#29-34: Shoreland Questions
#33: Erosion potential (opportunity)
#30: % cover (density)
#31: Average width (in-water area)
#32: Shore protection (type of vegetation)
#34: Upslope vegetation
83
83
#35: Rare wildlife
Y / N Is the wetland known to be used recently by
rare wildlife species or wildlife species that are
state or federally listed? If yes, wildlife habitat
functional level rating = exceptional. (If Special
Features, question J is answered yes, the functional level
will also be exceptional)
Guidance:
wildlife
species
include
any to
ofdo
those
If it is critical,Rare
call the
DNR and
ask. You
may need
a
listed in
the Minnesota
Natural
Heritage
Database
specialized
assessment
if wildlife
is an issue
for a project.
or County Biological Survey or are federally listed.
84
84
#36: Rare / natural community
Y
N Is
the wetland
or a portion of the wetland a rare
• Mn
Natural
Heritage
natural community or habitat based on the Minnesota
Database
Natural Heritage Database or the County Biological
Survey?
If yes, wildlife habitat functional level rating =
• County
Biological
exceptional. (If Special Features, question d is answered yes,
Survey
this question will also be affirmative.)
Guidance: Rare natural communities include those identified in
the Minnesota Natural Heritage Database or the County
Biological Survey or are known to be rare in the ecoregion.
85
85
#37: Open water/cover interspersion
For deep and shallow marshes or shallow open water wetland
Measure of “edge effect” for
types (types 3, 4, and 5) select the cover category that
diversity and abundance.
best illustrates the interspersion of open water and
emergent, submergent, or floating-leaved vegetation
within the wetland (click for Interspersion Diagram).
Medium
Low
•
High = Cover category type 5, 7.
High
•
Medium = Cover category
type 3, 4, 6.
•
Low = Cover category types 1, 2, 8.
•
N/A =
Not applicable for wetland types 1, 2, 6, 7, 8.
86
86
#37 Guidance, open water interspersion
Wetlands that contain vegetation interspersed with open
water are more likely to support greater site diversity
and/or abundance of fish and wildlife species.
Those with very dense vegetation and no channels or
open water areas are less likely to support this
function.
Vegetation interspersion is a measure of the amount of
edge between vegetation and open water, which is
valuable to wildlife.
87
87
#38: Veg. community interspersion
For wetlands having more
than one vegetative
community, indicate the
interspersion category that
best fits the wetland.
• High = Category 3
• Medium = Category 2
• Low = Category 1
• N/A = Only one vegetative
community is present.
Low
Med
High
88
88
#38 Guidance, veg. interspersion
For wetlands with multiple vegetative communities, the
increased structural diversity and amount of edge
associated with greater interspersion is generally
positively correlated with wildlife habitat quality.
Vegetative interspersion differs from open water interspersion
inThe
thatfigures
the wetland
not have
standing water, or
may have
are may
not exact
representations.
Choose
the
open
with several
interspersed at
(floating,
onewater
that looks
most communities
like the interspersion
your site.
emergent, submerged).
89
89
Image file for diagrams
To access the images,
press “Image”
90
90
#39: Detritus
A healthy wetland will have litter (detritus) in
several stages of decomposition present. Describe
the litter condition in the wetland:
High = The presence of litter layer in various stages of
decomposition.
Medium = Some litter with apparent bare spots, or
dense litter mat (e.g. reed canary grass mat).
Low = No litter layer.
N/A = Deep marshes, shallow open water and bog
communities.
91
91
#39 Guidance, wetland detritus
Detritus or vegetative litter in various stages of
N/A for
deep
decomposition is a sign of a healthy wetland.
Detrital
marshes,
biomass impacts nutrient cycling processes
and
disturbance regime and thereby influencesshallow
plant open
water, and bog
assemblages. Detritus maintains thermal regulation
of
communities.
rhizomes and propagules, and is essential to nutrient
cycling. The integrity of the system’s vegetation
components supplies the bulk of the faunal habitat
requirements.
92
92
#40: Wetland Interspersion
Describe the relative interspersion of various wetlands in the vicinity of
the assessment wetland:
High = The wetland occurs in a complex of wetlands of various types (general
guideline: at least 3 wetlands within 0.5 miles of assessment wetland, at
least one of which has a different plant community than the assessment
wetland); or the assessment wetland is the only wetland within a 2 mile
radius and exhibits at least a moderate or greater plant community
quality rating (see Question 2).
Medium = Other wetlands of the same plant community as the assessment
wetland are present within 0.5 miles.
Low =No other wetlands are present within 0.5 miles of the assessment
wetland but are present within 2 miles.
93
93
#40 Guidance, wetland interspersion
Best determined
using
(except
forested areas
This is different
fromGIS
Question
#20:inWetland
Density.
This questions
wetlands
areacres may
where
wetlands
smaller how
thanthe
one
to three
in relation
to each other.
Also,
the spacing
notplaced
appear).
This question
rates
wetlands
higher for
limits are not restricted to subwatershed, but they
having
more wetland neighbors.
are limited by distance. This question is designed
Research
thatfunction
the critical
radius
varies
moreindicates
for assessing
to wildlife,
while
#20 by
•relates
H—clustering
OR lastinrefuge
species.
Wetlands
isolated
the landscape
more to human-related
flood
attenuationmay
•opportunities.
M—average
provide
the last refuge for wetland-dependent species
in an
otherwiseclose,
upland
developed
• L—none
butorothers
exist area.
nearby
(see demo, next slide)
94
94
Landscape interspersion demo
H: No others within 2 miles
AND
site has veg rating of Med +
OR
2 mi.
½ mi.
H: ½ mile radius at least 3,
1 w/diff plant comm.
M: other wetlands within ½ mile
L: None < ½ mile, 1+ < 2 miles
95
95
#41: Barriers to wildlife movement
Habitat value diminishes when fragmented by barriers,
which restrict wildlife migration and movement.
Describe barriers present between the wetland and
other habitats:
High = No barriers or minimal barriers present; i.e. low traffic;
uncurbed roads, low density housing (> 1 acre lots), golf
courses, utility easements, or railroads.
Medium = Moderate barriers present; i.e. moderately traveled; curbed roads,
moderate density housing (1/3 to 1 acre lots), residential golf courses,
low dikes.
Low = Large barriers present; i.e. 4-lane or wider, paved roads, parking lots,
high density residential (<1/3 acres), industrial and commercial
development.
96
96
#41 Guidance, barriers to wildlife
This variable is defined as a measure of habitat
fragmentation of the wetland relative to other
wetlands and native plant communities to indicate the
ecosystem connectivity. It identifies barriers to
wildlife migration ranging from very small barriers
such as unpaved roads and low-density housing to
large hydrologic barriers such as regional canals and
levied roads. Reference area will affect this rating:
“other habitats” includes upland areas usable as
wildlife resting or reproductive habitat.
97
97
#42–44: Amphibian habitat
The next set of questions
tries to evaluate a
wetland for its function
in promoting amphibian
ecology.
In addition to these
questions, the formula
for this function
includes other variables:
–Buffer width
–Barriers
–Upland land use
–Storm water
98
98
#42: Amphibian –hydroperiod
Amphibian breeding potential – hydroperiod (check one)
- The wetland is inundated long enough in most years
to allow amphibians to successfully breed
(water regimes A,C, F, H, G) (Score = 1.0)
-
The wetland is not inundated long enough in most
years to allow amphibians to successfully
breed (water regimes B, D, E, J) (Score = 0)
99
99
#42 Guidance: hydroperiod
Frogs, toads
The and
Cowardin
salamanders
et al. water
reproduce
regimes
at different
listed above
timesare
from
late March
approximate
to June,indicators
depending–on
more
the direct
species.
evidence
Early breeders
of
(such hydroperiod
as spring peepers,
shouldwood
be used
frogs,
when
chorus
possible.
frogs,
salamanders)
typically
reproduce
in shallow,
Direct evidence
of amphibian
breeding
mayseasonal
be an
wetlands.
frogs and
mink frogs reproduce
in larger
indication Green
of a sufficient
hydroperiod.
Such evidence
more
wetlands. For
breeding
to beegg
successful,
wouldpermanent
include observations
of frogs
calling,
masses inthe
wetland
must
remainofinundated
long
enoughoffor
the larval
the water,
presence
tadpoles or
presence
young,
stages
metamorphosefrogs,
into adults.
period varies
newly to
metamorphosed
toads orThis
salamanders
at
depending
on the species, but a rough guide is that the wetland
the wetland.
should
remain inundated
least through
June 1 for the
Note however,
that someatspecies
are opportunistic
andportion
of
thelay
state
south
of I-94 and
at least
15 north of
will
eggs
in temporary
pools
thatthrough
will not June
remain
I-94.
This long
period
of inundation
will not
accommodate all
inundated
enough
for successful
reproduction.
species,
is reasonably
likely
ensure that the wetland is
Exercisebut
caution
when using
thistoindicator.
suitable for breeding by some amphibians.
If you have more direct evidence, use it.
100
100
#43: Amphibian—Fish
Amphibian breeding potential – fish presence
High = The wetland is isolated so that predatory fish
(e.g. bass, northern pike, walleye, bluegill, perch,
etc…) are never present.
Medium = The wetland may occasionally be connected
to other waters so that predatory fish may be
present in some years.
Low = The wetland is connected with a lake or river so
that predatory fish are always present or the
wetland is used for rearing of game fish.
101
101
#43 Guidance, fish presence
Guidance: Optimal amphibian breeding habitat is
characterized by a lack of predatory fish. These
habitats are wetlands that winterkill, dry periodically,
are periodically anoxic, and are not connected to
waters bearing predatory fish. The wetland should
not be used to rear bait or game fish. This question
utilizes observable characteristics of the wetland to
infer about the status of fish.
If you have direct evidence, use it.
102
102
#44: Depth for Overwintering
Amphibian and reptile overwintering habitat:
High = The wetland is normally more than 1.5 meters
deep (never or rarely winterkills).
New studies
indicateisthat
Blandings’
turtles
Medium
= The wetland
normally
around
1 meter deep
may
overwinterwinterkill).
in Type 6 wetlands. This
(may
occasionally
question
may be is
reworked
laterthan
versions.
Low
= The wetland
normallyinless
1 meter deep and
often freezes to the bottom.
N/A = The wetland never or rarely contains standing
water or is nearly always dry in winter.
103
103
#44 Guidance, depth for overwintering
Guidance: Wetlands that are deep and well
oxygenated provide over-wintering habitat for
leopard, green and mink frogs, as well as turtles.
Evidence of over-wintering would be observations of
migrations of frogs to the wetland in fall and away
from the wetland in spring and basking turtles in
the spring.
104
104
#45: List Wildlife Species
List any noteworthy wildlife species observed or in
evidence (e.g., tracks, scat, nest/burrow, calls,
viewer reports), including birds, mammals,
reptiles, and amphibians.
(Note: This list is for documentation only and is not necessarily an
indication of habitat quality.)
105
105
#46: Fishery Quality
Is the wetland contiguous or intermittently contiguous with a permanent
waterbody or watercourse such that it may provide spawning/nursery
habitat for native fish species? Choose the condition from the following list
that best describes the wetland in relation to fishery habitat:
Exceptional = The wetland is a known spawning habitat for native fish of high importance/interest
or the wetland is part of or adjacent to a trout fishery as identified by the DNR.
High = The wetland is lacustrine/riverine or is contiguous with a permanent water body or
watercourse and may provide spawning/nursery habitat or refuge for native fish species, or
shade to maintain water temperature in adjacent lakes, rivers or streams.
Medium = The wetland is intermittently connected to a permanent water body or watercourse that
may support native fish populations as a result of colonization during flood events, or the
wetland is isolated and supports native, non-game fish species.
Low = The wetland is isolated from a permanent water body or watercourse or has exclusive,
high carp populations which cause degradation to the wetland.
N/A = The wetland does not have standing water at any time during the growing season.
106
106
#46 Guidance, fishery quality
Guidance: Generally, the value of a wetland for fish habitat is related to its
Aconnection
wetlandwith
should
be rated
as Inhaving
high
value
for
fish ifhabitat
it
deepwater
habitats.
the north
central
region,
spawning
provides
for warm
spawning/nursery
water species can be anhabitat,
importantor
function
refuge
of afor
wetland,
native
andfish
northern
pike are
among
the most
valuable
warm
water
species Some
spawningisolated
in wetlands.
species
in
adjacent
lakes,
rivers
or
streams.
Cold-water species are relatively rare, but have an indirect effect through
deep
marshes
may
intermittently
supportspawning
populations
of have
improving
water
quality.
Northern pike wetland
habitat will
sunfish
severaland
characteristics
northernincluding:
pike as 1)a Aresult
semi-permanent
of colonization
or permanent
during
connection
to aevents.
lake or stream that has a population of northern pike; 2) Wetland is vegetated
flood
primarily with reeds, grasses, or sedges; or secondarily with cattails, rushes,
Permanently
arrowhead, water
flooded
lilies, submerged
isolatedplants,
wetlands
and shrubs
thatorsupport
lowland hardwoods
native with
grass and low
emergents;
3) The
wetland
is flooded during
the early spring at
populations
of
minnows
provide
moderate
value.
least once every 3 years for at least 20 days and remains connected to the lake or
Wetlands
stream during
with
thathigh
time; 4)
carp
Lacustrine
populations
areas should
provide
have 4 low
to 8 acres
value
of actual
for
area
for eachof
100carp
littoraldegradation.
acres of lake; andIsolated
5) Shallow
or deep marsh
fishspawning
habitat
because
wetlands
spawning areas are typically located on the upstream side of the lake or
not wetland
permanently
flooded do not generally support fish
stream.
populations.
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107
#47: List fish species
List any fish species observed or evidenced.
Note: This list is for documentation only and is not
necessarily an indication of habitat quality.
(Drop-down list: northern pike, perch, sunfish,
bass, minnows, carp)
108
108
#48-56: Aesthetics (values)
The next set of
questions assesses
wetland value based
on opportunity for
human appreciation
or use of the site.
109
109
#48: Unique/rare Opportunity
Y N Does the wetland provide a unique or
rare educational, cultural, or recreational
opportunity (e.g. located in an outdoor
learning park focused on wetland study)?
(If yes, this function rates exceptional)
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110
#48 Guidance, unique opportunity
Guidance: Unique Opportunity.
The wetland must provide a rare or unique opportunity within the
ecoregion, wetland comparison domain, or study area, such as
a wetland associated with a school environmental program or
public education institution (University of Minnesota's Cedar
Creek, Landscape Arboretum’s Spring Peeper Wetland),
cultural experience (wild rice areas), or a pristine-reference
site for another assessment tool.
Minnesota’s Index of Biologic Integrity uses several wetlands as
reference-standard sites for both high- and low-functioning
sites.
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111
#49: Visibility
Is the wetland visible from vantage points
such as: roads, waterways, trails, public
lands, houses, and/or businesses?
High = The wetland is highly visible and can be
seen from several public vantage points
Medium = The wetland in somewhat visible and
can be seen from a few vantage points.
Low = Very limited visibility.
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112
#49 Guidance, visibility
Guidance: Visibility. While dependent on
accessibility, a wetland's functional level could
be evaluated by the view it provides observers.
Distinct contrast between the wetland and
surrounding upland may increase its perceived
importance. Multiple vantage points increase
the likelihood and number of people that may
view the wetland.
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113
#50: Opportunity for use/
nearby population
Y N Is the wetland in/near any population centers so as to
generate aesthetic/recreation/ educational/cultural use?
Guidance: Accessibility is key to aesthetic or educational
appreciation. Thus, proximity to population centers may
increase its perceived importance. However, locations near
public areas may have associated noise and/or pollution
factors that could degrade the aesthetic and educational
functional level. A population center is a city, town, or
village within easy driving distance of the site.
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114
#51: Ownership
Is any part of the wetland in public or conservation
ownership?
High = Completely contained within publicly owned land or
entirely within a conservation easement.
Medium = Partially within publicly owned land or partially
within a conservation easement.
Low = Privately owned or not within a conservation easement.
Guidance: Wetlands located on lands in public ownership
inherently will provide open accessibility. Wetlands being on
lands within a conservation easement provides some
certainty that the wetlands will not be subject to impact
pressures.
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115
#52: Public Access
Does the public have access to the wetland from public roads
or waterways?
High = Direct access through a public facility with an established
parking area or boat access.
Medium = Cumbersome access from a public facility (i.e. no
established trails to or near wetland) or no public parking or
boat access available.
Low = No public access available.
Guidance: Accessibility of the wetland is key to its aesthetic or
educational appreciation. Wetlands located on private lands
are not likely to provide opportunities to the general public.
116
116
#53: Human Disturbance
What are the obvious human influences on the wetland itself,
such as:
High = No structures, pollution, invasive vegetation or other
alteration present in the wetland.
Medium = Wetland only moderately disturbed by structures,
pollution, invasive vegetation or alteration.
Low = Wetland has signs of extensive pollution/trash, severe
vegetative alteration, or multiple structures .
Guidance: Wetlands subject to direct human
disturbances/impacts are not likely to provide
aesthetically pleasing natural environments.
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117
#54: Viewshed Quality
What are the obvious human influences on the
viewshed of the wetland, such as:
High = No or minimal buildings, roads, or altered land
uses surrounding the wetland.
Medium = Surrounding area composed of mostly open
space with few buildings or roads, low intensity
agriculture.
Low = Wetland surrounded by residential, other
intensively developed land uses, or
intensive agriculture.
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118
#54 Guidance, viewshed quality
Guidance:
Wetland Viewshed. This question
Excessive noise (from nearby highway or
requirescould
a judgment
as toan
theintrusive
dominant land
factories)
be considered
use visible
at the primary viewing locations
human
influence.
within the wetland. This method assumes that
the most appealing views of wetlands are from
other areas of natural beauty such as an upland
forest. Wetlands occurring in densely
developed urban areas equate with lower
ratings.
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119
#55: Spatial Buffer
Does the wetland and buffer area provide a
spatial buffer between developed areas?
High = Spatial buffer more than 500 feet wide.
Medium = Spatial buffer between developed
areas less than 500 feet wide.
Low = Does not provide a spatial buffer—no
developed land near the wetland.
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120
#55 Guidance, spatial buffer
Guidance: Spatial Buffer. Views of open water and open space
general are considered to be aesthetically appealing. Distinct
Ain
wetland
with no
has LOW
contrast between
the nearby
wetland structures
and surrounding
uplandspatial
may
increase
its perceived importance. Expansive wetlands and
buffer
value.
associated buffer areas provide open space and a feeling of a
environment
reducing
the visibilityland”
of adjacent
Anatural
cramped
site withwhile
<500
ft to “developed
human development. If the wetland is surrounded by
(could
be lawn)land
= MEDIUM.
undeveloped
within its immediate viewshed, the wetland
has little value as a spatial buffer. Developed lands across any
portion of the wetland will benefit from the spatial buffering of
the wetland. Spatial buffer is measured from the edge of the
developed area, across the wetland, to the edge of the next
developed area. The edge may be considered the end of
manicured lawn or golf course, sidewalk or paved area, or up
to a wall or fence.
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121
#56: Recreational use (potential)
Is the wetland and immediately adjacent area assumed to be
currently used for (or does it have the potential to be
used for) recreational activities such as: education,
Manycultural,
wetlandsscientific
will ratestudy,
High for
this just
because
they
are
hiking,
biking,
skiing,
hunting,
fishing,
trapping,
near places
people
live.boating, canoeing, wildlife observation,
exploration, play, photography, or food harvest.
That
is okay. for multiple recreational
High = Evidence or a high
probability
uses.
This question allows a wetland that might rate low in other
Medium = Evidence of or a high probability for a few
functional
aspectsuses.
to be understood as valuable for an important
recreational
social
than aorpurely
ecological
function.use
Low =value,
Low rather
probability
potential
for recreational
Guidance:
Wetlands can
provide
This
is not necessarily
public
use; recreational
could be on private land.
and educational opportunities that enhance their value.
122
122
#57: Commercial effects and
wetland quality
Is the vegetation or hydrology controlled or modified to
sustain a commercial crop or other botanical products
that may include: wild rice, cranberries, hay,
pasture/grazing, row crops, white cedar, black spruce,
tamarack, floral decorations, or other commerciallyproductive uses?
High = Commercial use does not permanently alter wetland characteristics. Uses may
include: timber products, wild rice, hay, pasture, wet native grass seed
production, etc.
Medium = Wetland characteristics have been altered but vegetation is still hydrophytic.
Products may include: rice, cranberries, hay, pasture/grazing.
Low = Hydrology dramatically altered to produce non-hydrophytic row crops such as
soybeans or corn.
N/A = This wetland is not used for any commercial products.
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123
#57: Guidance, commercial effects
and wetland quality
Guidance: Row crops can be planted in some wetlands
after spring flooding has ceased and still have
adequate time to grow to maturity. Haying and
grazing are less intrusive agricultural activities and
can be utilized more casually when hydrologic
conditions permit. Wetland-dependent crops rely on
the wetland hydrology for part of their life cycle and
are a more natural fit for wetland use,
although some may require modification
of the natural hydrology.
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124
#58-63: Hydrogeology
The following questions relate to GW movement
into and out of the wetland. Base your answers
on the best available information.
Classification as primarily “recharge” or
“discharge” is based on how a majority of the
questions are answered and does not offer a
definitive result as to actual GW movement.
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125
#58: Wetland Soils
Describe the soils within the wetland:
Recharge = Mineral soils with a high organic content (all soils not included in
discharge system).
Discharge = Organic/peat soils, formed due to more continuous wetness
associated with a ground water discharge system
Guidance: Wetlands with mineral hydric soils typically represent drier hydrologic
regimes where GW recharge is more likely (i.e. saturated, seasonally flooded,
and temporarily flooded) where the wetness does not significantly limit
oxidation of organic materials. Groundwater discharge wetlands represent more
stable and permanent hydrologic regimes where excessive wetness limits the
oxidation of organic matter resulting in the accumulation of peat and/or muck. In
addition, coarser-grained mineral hydric soils may have higher permeabilities
allowing GW recharge, while histosols generally have low permeabilities,
reducing groundwater discharge. Disturbed soils in excavated wetlands or
stormwater ponds are subject to best professional judgement for this question.
126
126
#59: Land use/runoff
Describe the land use/runoff characteristics in the subwatershed upstream of the
wetland:
Recharge = Land is primarily developed to high-density residential, commercial,
industrial and road land uses (equivalent to lots 1/4 acre or smaller) indicating
impervious surfaces (>38%), which result in more runoff to wetlands and
lowered water tables creating a gradient for recharge under wetlands.
Discharge = Upland watershed primarily undeveloped or with low to moderate density
residential development (i.e. lots larger than ¼ acre) with low percentage of
impervious surfaces (<38%) so upland recharge (to groundwater) and higher
water table will be more likely to contribute discharge to wetlands.
Guidance: Watersheds with extensive paved surfaces, topographic disruptions, and the
presence of wells are associated with human development that lowers the
potentiometric contours. Lowered or diversified potentiometric contours enhance
the likelihood of recharge, not discharge. Wetlands with unpaved watersheds are
more likely to allow GW discharge to occur.
127
127
#60:Wetland size/soils
Indicate conditions that best fit the wetland based on wetland size and the
hydrologic properties of the soils within 500 feet of the wetland.
Recharge = Wetland is <200 acres and surrounding soils (within 500 feet) are primarily
in the C or D hydrologic groups.
Discharge = Wetland is >200 acres in size or wetland is <200 acres and the surrounding
soils (within 500 feet) are primarily in the A or B hydrologic groups.
Guidance: The size of the wetland and the surrounding upland soil texture are two
factors controlling the wetland’s water budget. A large wetland with a
proportionately small watershed may indicate subsidization of its water budget
by GW discharge. The probability of GW discharge occurring may thus increase
as the wetland/watershed ratio increases. The wetland size also controls the
recharge potential. The more fine-grained the soil texture in surrounding
uplands, the more water will flow to the wetland via overland flow and less
likely water is to flow to the wetland via GW discharge. Sandy and loamy
upland soils allow more infiltration. The infiltrated water percolates downward
vertically and/or flows laterally becoming GW discharge where wetlands
intersect the water table.
128
128
#61: Hydroperiod
Indicate the hydroperiod of the wetland[:
Recharge = Cowardin et al. water regimes: A, C, D, E, and J (i.e. temporarily flooded,
seasonally flooded, seasonally flooded/well drained, seasonally saturated, and
intermittently flooded as well as wetlands with the B regime (saturated) that: (1)
are on flats; and/or (2) are acid bogs (indicates precipitation-driven systems).
Discharge = Cowardin et al. water regimes: F, G, H, (i.e. semi-permanently flooded,
intermittently exposed, and permanently flooded), as well as wetlands with the B
water regime (saturated) that: (1) consist of sloping organic soils; (2) are on a
river valley terrace or at the toe of a bluff or beach ridge, etc.; or (3) have any
observed springs or seepages.
Guidance: Permanently flooded, semi-permanently flooded, and saturated water
regimes, especially in regions having high evaporation rates, often indicate
groundwater discharge to a wetland. Exceptions are saturated wetlands on flats
and/or bogs that are precipitation-driven systems. Wetlands that are seasonallyor temporarily-flooded are more likely to recharge groundwater.
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129
#62: Inlet/Outlet for GW
Describe the inlet/outlet configuration that best fits the wetland:
Recharge = No or restricted outlet in natural and lacustrine wetlands.
Discharge = Perennial outlet but no perennial or intermittent stream
inlet; or perennial stream riverine wetland.
Guidance: A wetland with a permanent stream inlet but no permanent outlet is more
likely to recharge GW than one with an outlet. A higher hydraulic gradient will
likely be present in an area with no outlet, especially if an inlet is present. The
longer water is retained in an area, the greater the opportunity for it to percolate
through the substrate. Wetlands without outlets generally experience more waterlevel fluctuations, resulting in inundation of unsaturated soils. Lack of an outlet
suggests that water is being lost either through recharge or evapotranspiration.
Flow-through wetlands would be considered discharge wetlands for the purposes
of this question.
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130
#63: Topographic relief
Characterize the topographic relief surrounding the wetland:
Recharge = Land slopes away from (below) the wetland (wetland
is elevated in the subwatershed).
Discharge = Topography characterized by a downslope toward
the wetland around the majority of the wetland (wetland is
found lower on the landscape).
Guidance: Groundwater discharge is more likely to occur in areas where the
topographic relief is characterized by a sharp downslope toward the
wetland. GW recharge is more likely in wetlands where the topographic
relief is characterized by a sharp downslope away from the wetland. The
slope of the water table with respect to the wetland influences the
hydraulic gradient for groundwater movement.
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131
Additional Questions
Optional restorationrelated questions,
#64-72
132
132
#64: Hydrologic Restoration Potential
Guidance:
purpose
this question
is to identify
opportunities
Y N The
Does
theofwetland
have
the potential
for restoration of drained or partially drained wetlands. Generally,
for hydrologic restoration without
this question applies to wetlands which have been ditched or tiled
flooding:
roads,
houses,
septic
systems,
golfdrained
for agricultural
or other
purposes.
Some
drained
or partially
wetlands
will notorhave
the permanent
potential for infrastructure
restoration because
of altered
courses
other
(active
land uses
that rely onfields
continued
of surface
and/or
agricultural
are drainage
acceptable
uses within
subsurface
water. restoration
It is importantareas)
to lookwithin
at landthe
usesrestoration
upstream of the
potential
drained wetland to determine if any of the features mentioned could
area? If yes, answer the following questions. If no,
be flooded by plugging a ditch, breaking drain tiles or creating an
skip to question 71.
impoundment.
133
133
#65: Landowners
Guidance:
The number
number ofof
landowners
of thethat
drained
or be
Indicate the
landowners
would
partially drained wetland and any obvious upstream areas
affected
by
the
wetland
restoration
project:
that would be flooded by hydrologic restoration of the
wetland
directly
the feasibility
a restoration
Exceptional
= affects
Completely
withinofpublic
ownership
project. Typically, as the number of private owners of a
High
=
1
potential restoration site goes up the project becomes more
complex
Mediumand= the
2 probability of success is reduced due to
conflicting desires among the landowners.
Low =
3 or more
134
134
#66 Wetland Size
This information was collected on the
General Information page. The question
number is being kept as placeholder until
the next upgrade.
135
135
#67: Potential Buffer Width
Enter the average width of naturalized
upland buffer that could potentially be
established around the restored wetland:
______ feet
(High = more than >50’
Medium = between 25’ and 50’
Low = less than <25’
Guidance: Upland buffer protects wetland function.
136
136
#68: Restoration Ease
Guidance:
The easiest
to restore
are those
Rate the potential
easewetlands
of wetland
restoration:
that
were
drained
a single
drain
tile.
High
= Break
tileby
line
and/orditch
plug or
ditch,
discontinue
Restoration of those wetlands will typically involve
pumping.
simply
plugging the ditch or breaking the tile line.
Medium = Break multiple tile lines and/or ditch
Theplugs.
most difficult situation for creating wetlands is
Low
= Diking, berming,
excavation
or grading.
by
impoundment
or excavation
in uplands.
This
involves much more uncertainty and greater cost.
137
137
#69: Hydrologic Alteration
Indicate Alterations
the type ofmay
hydrologic
alteration:
Guidance:
include ditching
or
tiling.
Also important
are GW pumping activities that
____
Ditching
can lower local ground water levels and drain
____(i.e. dewatering
Drain Tiles
wetlands
for quarries, underground
construction,
utility construction;
ground water
____ orGround
Water Pumping
pumping for residential, commercial or municipal
____
Lowered
Elevation
water
use). In metro
areas,Outlet
the natural
wetland outlet
elevation may be lowered by the construction of an
____
Watershed Diversion
outlet structure (i.e. weir, culvert, lowered overland
____elevation).
Filling
outflow
138
138
#70: Potential Classification
Indicate the primary potential restoration
wetland classification according to
Circular 39 (USFWS, 1956) : Type 1, 2, 3,
4, 5, 6, 7, or 8.
(Informational purposes only)
139
139
Planning for Protection
The next two questions are not just for
restorable wetlands, but would also be
useful for planning wetland protection
efforts.
140
140
#71: Stormwater Sensitivity
High
= Shrub-carrs,
alder thickets,
fresh
wet
Describe
the susceptibility
of thediverse
wetland
to degradation
meadows
dominated byinput:
nativewetland
species,type
diverse
shallow and
from stormwater
classification
deep marshes and diverse shallow, open water communities.
(Question #1, Community Type and Question #3,
Medium
= Floodplain
forests, freshwill
wetbemeadows
dominated
Vegetative
Diversity/Integrity)
utilized to
determine
by reed canary grass, shallow and deep marshes dominated by
the reed
best canary
fit to the
following
categories
based
on the most
cattail,
grass,
giant reed
or purple
loosestrife,
and
sensitive,
wetland community:
shallow,
open dominant
water communities
with moderate to low
diversity.
Exceptional = Sedge meadows, open and coniferous bogs,
fens,cultivated
low prairies,
wetsoils,
to wetormesic
prairies,
Lowcalcareous
= Gravel pits,
hydric
dredge/fill
disposal
sites. swamps, lowland hardwood swamps, or
coniferous
seasonally
flooded are
basins.
Guidance:
Guidelines
taken from State of Minnesota,
1997, Section IV, Wetland Susceptibility.
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141
#72: Nutrient Loading
Describe
sustainability
of theuntreated,
wetland directed
with
Guidance:the
Wetlands
that receive
stormwater
sediment
and nutrients
will not
regard tocontaining
stormwater
treatment
prior to discharge
beinto
as sustainable
as in(This
a native
landscape.
the wetland.
rating
uses the calculated
outcome from the Wetland Water Quality Protection
Functionwetlands
(H, M, or
L) and applies
it as follows):
Typically,
receiving
stormwater
treated to
approximately
NURP stormwater
standards will
have a higher
High = No additional
treatment
needed.
likelihood of sustainability. Wetlands receiving
Medium
= Additional
stormwater
nutrient
stormwater
with just sediment
removal
willremoval
be subject
to needed.
nutrient loading and excessive plant growth.
Low = Additional sedimentation and nutrient removal
needed.
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Run summary report
• The last tab is the summary report.
• Formulas are used to arrive at numeric
ratings for each function.
• Each Vegetative Community is listed with
its rating, as well as the other options for
that function.
• Scroll to see all functions.
(click for image)
143
143
Formulas
• See Comprehensive Guidance for a description of
all the formulas.
• Formulas are also visible “in action” on the digital
version of the Excel field worksheet.
144
144
Management Classification
A standard method for assessing MnRAM
results, endorsed by the MnRAM Workgroup.
• Guide policy approaches using MnRAM
wetland data.
• Two levels allow flexibility for regional
landscape or policy differences.
145
145
MC Preset Options:
“Basic” or “Increased”
Basic Protection: fewer
wetlands will remain in the
“Preserve” category
Increased Standard keeps
more wetlands in the
stronger protection levels.
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146
Known bugs
Deleting an entry from #24-25-26 without
entering a zero may result in a run-time
error. Pressing <End> will return you to the
field to correct your error.
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147
BWSR MnRAM Support
Natasha DeVoe
(651) 205-4664
[email protected]
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148