View the WAP plant identification training video:
Strata: Trees 2:47, Shrubs and Small Trees 37:31, Ground Cover 44:08
About the Program
The purpose of the Wetland Assessment Procedure (WAP) is to characterize the ongoing biological condition and health of wetlands by collecting information on vegetation, hydrology, soils, and other pertinent variables in monitored wetlands to accurately characterize the ongoing biological condition and health of each wetland.
The WAP was developed from data collection and analysis performed during 2000-2002 and 2004. The current method was finalized in 2005.
Program Goals
This information will be used for a variety of water management purposes, including wellfield management considerations, the development of minimum flows and levels, and the assessment of recovery in areas that have experienced historic hydrologic and biologic impacts due to groundwater withdrawals. Although the WAP seeks to document and monitor many aspects of wetland health, some of these aspects are not the procedure's focus. Many wetlands also are subject to negative health impacts caused by surrounding land management and drainage practices, encroaching development, cattle operations, exotic plant species introduction, disease, and other variables. However, the WAP attempts to focus on the collection of data that will be used to assess biologic changes caused by the hydrologic effects of groundwater withdrawals.
The District provides WAP training annually in April.
- The 2023 training will consist of two identical WAP training workshops:
- Session 1: April 4 and 5
- Session 2: April 12 and 13
- Both workshops will be held in-person at Cross Bar Ranch Visitor Center and will include classroom and field portions
- The WAP workshop is structured for those new to WAP, i.e., anyone who has not recently attended workshops for a minimum of 3 years and also performed WAPs during those years (Novice track). However, the workshop is also open to those with more than three years of WAP experience who would like refresher training prior to the 2023 WAP season (Expert track).
- To RSVP the 2023 training event, please complete this survey or email Madison Frazier by March 24, 2023.
- Please specify the session and track that you plan to attend
- Space is limited, so email confirmation will be sent to verify your spot
Program Documents
Below are the most recent documents needed to apply the WAP in the current year. These documents should be reviewed prior to training, and prior to performing WAPs.