Access to practical tools & resources to help Canadians better understand and conserve wetlands.

Description

The Wetland Evaluation Technique (WET) was designed primarily for the initial, rapid assessment of wetland functions and values. WET also assesses the suitability of wetland habitat for waterfowl and wetland-dependent birds, fresh and saltwater fish, and invertebrates. WET evaluates eleven functions and values by characterizing wetlands in terms of predictors that correlate with the physical, chemical, and biological characteristics of a wetland and its surroundings. WET poses a series of yes/no questions about the predictors that reflect on the relationship between predictors and wetland functions/values. Interpretation keys assign a rating of high, moderate, or low to each function and value in terms of social significance, effectiveness, and opportunity. WET can be used for:

  • comparison of different wetlands
  • selection of priorities for wetland acquisition or detailed study
  • identification of acceptable options for permit applications
  • determining effects of project activities on wetland functions and values
  • comparison of created or restored wetlands with preimpact wetlands for mitigation purposes.
The technique is applicable to all wetland types in the contiguous United States. WET is included in WetKit to raise awareness about alternative approaches to functional assessment.

Additional Information:

Regions: United States

Submitted by: WetlandNetwork