Wetland Classification, Identification, Delineation and Staking Services

In 2001, SER introduced three new wetland delineation packages to better meet the needs of our clients: a pre-purchase agreement plan, an economy service package, and a premium service package. You may call SER for more details, or request a Wetland Delineation Packages project summary sheet from the marketing materials request section of our survey page for more detail.

For most of our delineation service packages, our services routinely include reviewing relevant available maps of the site (e.g., NWI maps, soil surveys, etc.), a site visit and delineation, and documentation of our findings. If necessary, a photo review will be performed to determine jurisdictional status of wetlands with questionable hydrology.

Wetland edges will be staked by SER staff with expertise in hydric soils and hydrophytic plant species identification. The wetland edge will be marked. Wetland edges will be staked to the subject property line if the wetland extends beyond the limits of the property.

Data sheets describing each wetland's traits (e.g., soil characteristics, hydrology, and vegetation - the Army Corps of Engineers criteria for wetland determination) will be completed. Wetland classification will follow methods described by Cowardin et al. (1979) - also used by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The Circular 39 classification (Shaw and Fredine 1956) will also be given.

Upon completion of the delineation we recommend that you either arrange for a professional surveyor to locate the marked edges or use our GPS services for accurately locating wetland boundaries.

A detailed or summary report (depending on the scope of the project) will be prepared. Site specific graphics will be included as appropriate. This report will adhere to suggested guidelines for delineation reports as recommended by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and your state's Board of Water and Soil Resources (or equivalent).

If it is deemed necessary by your Local Government Unit (LGU), a wetland functional analysis can be performed for the wetlands on your site.

If we think it will enhance your project success, SER may recommend a hydrology study for your site to maximize the land available for construction. After your site has been delineated, you can rely on SER to produce a quality Replacement Plan Application for your development project.

One example of the many wetland delineations we have performed is the Great Lakes Pipeline Cooridor Project.