This course is designed primarily for beginners.  Learn about the different types of wetlands in Ohio, the functions they perform, their values, and the shared characteristics needed to be classifed as wetlands.

MBI recognizes that wetlands can be a somewhat amorphous concept for many natural resource professionals and others interested in the environment who are not formally trained or experienced in wetlands. Therefore, we have developed a one-day course focusing on the basic characteristics that make a wetland a wetland. The course gives participants a clear perception of how wetlands can be separated out from other parts of the landscape without the need to have extensive technical expertise in wetland plants, soils, and hydrology. “Introduction to Wetlands” is designed for those who want to learn to identify wetlands, about the varying types of wetlands, and the values they provide, but do not necessarily have the need to collect the large amounts of specific data necessary to establish and support the exact wetland boundaries needed in wetland permitting processes. If you would like to have confidence in identifying wetlands, understanding their ecology, and knowing the general extent of their footprints, this course is for you.

Morning: Classroom Instruction

The first half of the day will be in the classroom learning simple ways to separate out wetlands from the areas that contain them. This will include ways to identify the major wetland plant communities and hydrology sources, and how although wetlands have common characteristics, they do not all look the same. We will discuss the importance and range of ecosystem functions and services provided by wetlands, and will cover a brief overview of the wetland regulatory processes.

Afternoon: Field Training

The afternoon will be spent at local wetlands to further illustrate and enhance the concepts presented in the classroom and to ensure that participants become comfortable in their skills to identify wetlands and their approximate boundaries. We will visit differing types of landscapes containing wetlands and by the end of the day participants should develop a high degree of confidence in their wetland identification abilities. Participants will receive a certificate documenting successful course completion.

*This course is certified by the Society of Wetland Scientists Professional Certification Program.