Wisconsin Wetlands: Wetland Boundary Delineation

Wetland Inventory Maps, U.S. Department of Agriculture Natural Resource Conservation Service Wetland Maps, County Soil Surveys and other data can be used to initially assess whether a site may contain wetlands. However, precise wetland boundary determinations are needed for individuals planning development projects. State law requires that precise wetland delineations must be done using 1987 Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual (Technical Report Y-87-1) [exit DNR] and related guidance (Chapter NR 103, Wis. Adm. Code [PDF 31KB exit DNR] and Chapter NR 352, Wis. Adm. Code [PDF 10KB exit DNR]). A qualified wetland professional is generally required to make these determinations, which are then normally subject to review by regulatory agencies.

Each year UW-LaCrosse holds wetland delineation workshops. There are two 2 1/2 day workshops: Basic Wetland Delineation [exit DNR] and Advanced Wetland Delineation [exit DNR]. These workshops are held in LaCrosse and at an alternate location in Wisconsin that changes each year. The courses are taught by experts and will be of interest to anyone who delineates wetlands or wishes to learn how to delineate wetlands in Wisconsin.

Wetland Delineation Professional Assurance

DNR has established a professional assurance program for those highly experienced professional wetland consultants that meet certain qualifications. Professional assurance means that the work of individuals meeting training and performance standards will receive spot checks rather than individual review. This should result in faster decisions and improved wetlands protection. Refer to the Wetland Delineation Professional Assurance program information and instructions for more information.

More Information

For more information on wetland boundary delineation, contact:

Pat Trochlell
Wetland Ecologist
(608) 267-2453