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Physical Clues

The second step in locating wetlands is to walk the property and look for physical clues wetlands may be present. To be designated as a wetland, an area generally has three components - wet soils, plants that grow in wet conditions, and the seasonal presence of enough water to support those plants.

Wetland Clues Checklist

We recommend you use the Wetland Clues Checklist and Photos to help you identify clues wetlands may be present on a property. Then print off a copy of the checklist, walk the property, including wooded areas, and answer the questions.

• Waking Up To Wetlands [PDF 755KB]
  Printable, full color brochure
• Wetland Clues Checklist [PDF 113KB]

Answering Yes

If you answered "Yes" to any of these questions, a wetland is may be present. If you're buying land, we recommend you consider completing a real estate addendum with your offer to purchase. This process allows you more time to hire a professional to verify if there is a wetland and allows you to re-negotiate or rescind your offer.

If you're considering building on land you already own, we recommend you consult a wetland professional to verify a wetland is present and to identify wetland boundaries. You can hire a private professional trained in wetland boundary delineation.

Step 3: Explore Your Options

If your property contains wetland resources, you have several options. We recommend you preserve wetlands and enjoy the many benefits they bring, such as catching a glimpse of great blue herons, woodcock, frogs, salamanders and other wildlife. So, get your feet wet and explore them wetlands.

» Explore Your Options

Contact Information

For more information on wetland physical clues, contact:

Pat Trochlell
Wetland Ecologist
(608) 267-2453