This project will develop training materials and other technical guidance on the implementation of the FGDC Wetland Mapping Standard. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), the maintenance authority for the standard, has developed a list of descriptors to describe wetland characteristics not currently addressed under the existing wetland classification standard. These descriptors are added to existing digital wetland data to enhance the information associated with each wetland polygon by describing the landscape position, landform, water flow path, and waterbody type (LLWW). Enhancing wetland data with LLWW descriptors can provide a more comprehensive picture of wetland type and potential wetland function. The Montana Natural Heritage Program (MTNHP) has been developing spatial and attribute queries within a Geographic Information System (GIS) to create a semi-automated procedure for assignment of LLWW descriptors to wetland data in the USFWS Wetlands Geodatabase. Functional data can then be summarized across watersheds, counties, or other large geographic areas, providing essential information to natural resource managers, city and county planning offices, and watershed councils. They will collaborate with other state and tribal organizations to share information regarding the approach. Additionally, they will conduct a pilot project to assess the accuracy of their approach using existing field data collected in Montana.

Interim Report

Kick-off Meeting Presentation (PDF)

The University of Montana-Montana Natural Heritage Program
Montana Department of Environmental Quality’s (DEQ) Wetland Program
Colorado Natural Heritage Program, Colorado State
CNL World

Contacts:

Karen Newlon, University of Montana-Montana Natural Heritage Program
406-444-0915
knewlon@mt.gov

Linda Vance, Montana Natural Heritage Program
406-444-3380
livance@mt.gov