An Approach for Assessing Wetland Functions Using Hydrogeomorphic Classification, Reference Wetlands, and Functional Indices. Report number WRP-DE-9.. (Status: completed, Completed: 1995)
Performer(s):
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE)
Sponsor(s):
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE), Hydrogeomorphic Wetlands Assessment Program; FHWA
To order:
National Technical Information Service (NTIS), 5285 Port Royal Rd., Springfield, VA 22161. Tel: 800-553-6847; Fax: 703-605-6900; Email: Orders@NTIS.fedworld.gov;
Order No.:
Rept. No. WRP-DE-9, NTIS No. ADA3071214.
Abstract
A product of the Hydrogeomorphic Wetland Assessment Program, this document provides the procedural framework for applying the Hydrogeomorphic (HGM) Wetland Functional Assessment methodology to wetlands. It explains the basis and principals behind the HGM method, describes the HGM wetlands classification system, and gives examples of assessment. Available to State DOTs. Other products are being developed by the COE and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA) with continued FHWA support, such as regional wetland reference models. See also these products: "Regional Procedures and Scientific Models to Assess Functions of Wetlands" and "A Guidebook for Application of Hydrogeomorphic Assessments to Riverine Wetlands" (both database items).
For more information:
Paul Garrett, U.S. DOT, FHWA, HEPN-30; 555 Zang St., Room 400, Lakewood, CO 80228. Tel: 303-969-5772 x332; Fax: 303-969-6727; Email: Paul.garrett@fhwa.dot.gov.

Case Histories of Wetland Restoration and Watershed Planning Strategies Related to Highway Projects. (Status: completed, Completed: 1998)
Performer(s):
The Wetlands Initiative, Inc., Chicago, IL
Sponsor(s):
FHWA
Abstract
The research provides examples of flexible mitigation in the watershed planning context for highway projects. Restoration techniques, administrative processes, institutional relationships through which the restorations were accomplished, and written project case histories will be covered in the final report. The research work was completed in 1998. Publication of the report awaits FHWA review.
For more information:
Paul Garrett, U.S. DOT, FHWA, HEPN-30; 555 Zang St., Room 400, Lakewood, CO 80228. Tel: 303-969-5772 x332; Fax: 303-969-6727; Email: Paul.garrett@fhwa.dot.gov.

Development of Functional Model for Hydrogeomorphic Assessment of Intermontane Depressional Wetlands. (Status: ongoing, Completed: 1999)
Performer(s):
University of Montana - Biological Station
Sponsor(s):
FHWA; U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE)
Abstract
The purpose of the project is to provide an accurate, concise method of performing functional assessments on wetlands for the Section 404 (Clean Water Act) regulatory program compliance purposes, including determination of requirements for and planning of, mitigation projects. Key characteristics of wetlands were identified and measured to allow rapid evaluation of wetland functional capacity for different wetland functions, such as habitat, water storage, and water quality. The functional capacity values are used in determining wetland impacts due to discharge of fill in or around wetlands, including that required in highway projects. They are also used to determine mitigation requirements, and to design mitigation projects. The resulting manual will be used by the Montana Department of Transportation (MDT), other regional DOT's, and other agencies.
For more information:
Paul Garrett, U.S. DOT, FHWA, Colorado Div. Office; 555 Zang St., Room 400, Lakewood, CO 80228. Tel: 303-969-5772 x332; Fax: 303-969-6727; Email: Paul.garrett@fhwa.dot.gov.

Development of Functional Model for Hydrogeomorphic Assessment of Low Gradient Riverine Wetlands in the Southern Coastal Plain. (Status: ongoing, Completed: 1999)
Performer(s):
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA)
Sponsor(s):
FHWA; U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE)
Abstract
The purpose of the project is to provide an accurate, concise method of performing functional assessments on wetlands for Section 404 (Clean Water Act) regulatory program compliance purposes, including determination of requirements for and planning of, mitigation projects. Key characteristics of wetlands were identified and measured to allow rapid evaluation of wetland functional capacity for different wetland functions, such as habitat, water storage, and water quality. The functional capacity values are used in determining wetland impacts due to discharge of fill in or around wetlands, including that required in highway projects. They are also used to determine mitigation requirements, and to design mitigation projects. The resulting operating manual will be used by State Departments of Transportation and other agencies.
For more information:
Paul Garrett, U.S. DOT, FHWA, Colorado Div. Office; 555 Zang St., Room 400, Lakewood, CO 80228. Tel: 303-969-5772 X332; Fax: 303-969-6727; Email: Paul.garrett@fhwa.dot.gov.

Back to Top

Evaluation of Wetland Mitigation Measures. (Status: completed, Completed: 1992)
Performer(s):
Normandeau Assoc., Inc. (NH)
Sponsor(s):
FHWA
To order:
National Technical Information Service (NTIS), 5285 Port Royal Rd., Springfield, VA 22161. Tel: 800-553-6847; Fax: 703-605-6900; Email: Orders@NTIS.fedworld.gov;
Order No.:
Rept. No. FHWA-RD-90-083, NTIS No. PB92220607.
Abstract
This report analyzes 17 highway wetland mitigation projects in 14 states, comparing them to natural control wetlands to evaluate the effectiveness of the mitigation to perform wetland functions and values. Field biologists used two assessment methods in the field to compare mitigation sites and controls. Conclusions and recommendations for mitigation are included. Volume II: Field Data Sheets, contains WET 2.0 and Hollands-Magee data sheets, as well as plant species lists from sites studied.
For more information:
Paul Garrett, U.S. DOT, FHWA, HEP-40; 555 Zang St., Room 400, Lakewood, CO 80228. Tel: 303-969-5772 x332; Fax: 303-969-6727; Email: Paul.garrett@fhwa.dot.gov.

A Guidebook for Application of Hydrogeomorphic Assessments to Riverine Wetlands. Report number WRP-DE-11. (Status: completed, Completed: 1995)
Performer(s):
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE)
Sponsor(s):
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE), Hydrogeomorphic Wetlands Assessment Program; FHWA
To order:
National Technical Information Service (NTIS), 5285 Port Royal Rd., Springfield, VA 22161. Tel: 800-553-6847; Fax: 703-605-6900; Email: Orders@NTIS.fedworld.gov;
Order No.:
Rept. No. WRP-DE-11, NTIS No. ADA308366.
Abstract
A product of the Hydrogeomorphic Wetlands Assessment Program, this document provides the basic outline and guidance for regionalization of functional assessment models applicable to riverine wetlands under the hydrogeomorphic (HGM) functional assessment methodology. It explains the basis and principles behind the HGM method, describes the riverine wetland classes, and gives general functional models for different wetland functions performed by riverine wetlands that should be evaluated under the Section 404 Permit Program. Other products are being developed by U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE) and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA) with continued FHWA support. A related product in this database is "An Approach for Assessing Wetland Functions Using Hydrogeomorphic Classification, Reference Wetlands, and Functional Indices."
For more information:
Paul Garrett, U.S. DOT, FHWA, HEPN-30; 555 Zang St., Room 400, Lakewood, CO 80228. Tel: 303-969-5772 x332; Fax: 303-969-6727; Email: Paul.garrett@fhwa.dot.gov.

Regional Procedures and Scientific Models to Assess Functions of Wetlands. (Status: ongoing, Completed: 1999)
Performer(s):
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA)
Sponsor(s):
FHWA; Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), U.S. Dept. of the Interior (U.S. DOI); National Oceanic & Atmospheric Admin. (NOAA), U.S. Dept. of Commerce (U.S. DOC); Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), U.S. Dept of Agriculture (USDA)
Abstract
Research supports the development of regional wetland assessment models according to the national action for implementing the hydrogeomorphic wetlands assessment method (HGM). Regional guidebooks will be produced which will be applied to the processing of Section 404 permits needed by State Departments of Transportation (DOTs).
For more information:
Paul Garrett, U.S. DOT, FHWA, HEPN-30; 555 Zang St., Room 400, Lakewood, CO 80228. Tel: 303-969-5772 x332; Fax: 303-969-6727; Email: Paul.garrett@fhwa.dot.gov.

Results of Wetlands Mitigation Associated with Highway Projects. (Status: completed, Completed: 1995)
Performer(s):
FHWA, Environmental Analysis Division (HEP-40)
Sponsor(s):
FHWA
To order:
Paul Garrett. U.S. DOT, FHWA, HEPN-30, 555 Zang St., Room 400, Lakewood, CO 80228. Tel: 303-969-5772 x332; Fax: 303-969-6727; Email: Paul.garrett@fhwa.dot.gov;
Abstract
This research paper was presented at the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE) Wetlands Symposium held in New Orleans, LA, April 1995. It analyzes data on wetland mitigation projects carried out for highway projects, collected as part of an FHWA research project, "Evaluation of Wetland Mitigation Measures", FHWA-RD-90-083, dated May 1992. The paper evaluates the results of mitigation projects on a no-net-loss basis, considering ecological and socioeconomic functions and values ascribed to wetlands, through two functional assessment techniques, WET and the Hollands-Magee methodologies. Most projects did not meet no-net-loss criteria when functional equivalency was considered, although they may have resulted in an equal area of wetland being created or established. Some projects resulted in the conversion of one wetland type to another, resulting in a net loss of wetland area. Others resulted in a net gain of wetland area, with a replacement of one type of wetland for another (out-of-kind mitigation). Most decisions regarding selection of a mitigation alternative appear to have been based on the availability of an acceptable mitigation site, local wetland management priorities and objectives, or cost.

U.S. 65 Bypass, Pine Bluff, AR--Wetland and Floodplain Mitigation Plan. (Status: completed, Completed: 1997)
Performer(s):
University of Arkansas
Sponsor(s):
Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Dept. (AHTD); FHWA; University of Arkansas
To order:
Bill Richardson. Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Dept., Environmental Div., P.O. Box 2261, Little Rock, AR 72203-2261. Tel: 501-569-2281; Fax: 501-565-2009; Email: BLRD186@AHTD.State.ar.us;
Abstract
The proposed bypass, consisting of a 11.6 mile 4-lane divided highway will be located on new location parallel to Bayou Bartholomew. Approximately 33 acres of wetlands will be filled and converted to highway embankment, and an additional 2 acres will be cleared and allowed to revert to wetlands. Approximately 175 acres of wetlands will be created or restored and 200 acres of bottomland hardwoods will be purchased and preserved. Innovative mitigation measures resulted in a cost savings of $12 million in construction costs, and demonstrates that design in harmony with nature does not always cost; sometimes it pays. Research funds listed here were budgeted for 43 acres of Nevins Creek wetlands research and mitigation.
For more information:
Fred G. Bank, U.S. DOT, FHWA, HEPN-30; 400 Seventh St., SW., Washington, DC 20590. Tel: 202-366-5004; Fax: 202-366-3409; Email: Fred.bank@fhwa.dot.gov.

Back to Top

Wetbirds: An Expert Method for Assessing Habitat Potential for Wetland-Dependent Mammals, Amphibians, and Reptiles. (Status: ongoing, Completed: 1999)
Performer(s):
University of Massachusetts - Amherst
Sponsor(s):
FHWA
Abstract
Wetbirds is a PC-based, expert system program which identifies wetland bird habitat potentials based on descriptions of the physical habitat characteristics at specific sites. The program encompasses the Northeastern United States. It contains habitat characteristics and distribution data for 96 wetland dependent bird species. The program is useful in evaluating the probable presence of bird species within a known habitat type in the region covered, which includes New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont, Maine, Connecticut, and Massachusetts. It can be used in preparing National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) documents, Section 7 biological assessments under Endangered Species Act (ESA) requirements, and wetlands assessments under the Section 404 regulatory program. It is also useful in planning mitigation for wetlands impacts.
For more information:
Paul Garrett, U.S. DOT, FHWA, HEPN-30; 555 Zang St., Room 400, Lakewood, CO 80228. Tel: 303-969-5772 x332; Fax: 303-969-6727; Email: Paul.garrett@fhwa.dot.gov.

WEThings: Wetland Habitat Indicators for Non-Game Species: Wetland-Dependent Amphibians, Reptiles, and Mammals of New England. (Status: completed, Completed: 1994)
Performer(s):
University of Massachusetts, Environmental Institute
Sponsor(s):
FHWA
To order:
U.S. DOT, FHWA (Available to State Highway Agencies only. Contact: Paul Garrett 202-366-2067) Univiversity of Massachusetts, Bulletin Distribution Center, Draper Hall, Box 32010, Amherst, MA 01003-2010. Tel: 413-545-2717; Fax: 413-545-5174;
Order No.:
Rept. No. TEI-94-1; TEI-94-2,
Abstract
WEThings is a PC-based methodology that analyzes data from wetlands to determine their suitability as habitat for various wetland dependent animals. The method uses an expert system approach based on habitat use models developed from scientific literature and reports on habitat use and requirements of the species of concern. NOTE: The output is a statement concerning habitat suitability for one or more of 59 species occurring in New England. Volume I is a booklet (45 pages) and Volume II consists of 627 looseleaf pages suitable for a binder.
For more information:
Scott Jackson, University of Massachusetts, Dept. of Forestry & Wildlife; Holdsworth Hall, Amherst, MA 01003-4210. Tel: 413-545-4743; Email: SJackson@umext.umass.edu.

Wetlands and Highways: A Natural Approach. (Status: completed, Completed: 1993)
Performer(s):
FHWA
Sponsor(s):
FHWA
To order:
Ginny Finch. U.S. DOT, FHWA, HEPN-1, 400 Seventh St., SW., Washington, DC 20590. Tel: 202-366-4258; Fax: 202-366-3409; Email: Ginny.finch@fhwa.dot.gov;
Order No.:
Rept. No. FHWA-PD-94-004,
Abstract
Highlights the concept of mitigation banking by providing case study examples of wetland protection and enhancement measures conducted on highway projects nationwide. Contains statistics on wetlands loss since 1780 by State, some solutions, success stories in mitigation and wetlands banking in a number of States.

Wetlands No Net Loss Database. (Status: ongoing, Completed: 1999)
Performer(s):
Louis Berger and Assoc., Inc.
Sponsor(s):
FHWA
Abstract
The research will develop an interactive tool that can be used by State DOTs to collect, analyze, organize, and periodically update wetland mitigation information as needed for data reporting and management decisions. The information will allow the States and FHWA to determine if stated no-net-loss and net gain wetland goals and policies are being met.
For more information:
Paul Garrett, U.S. DOT, FHWA, HEPN-30; 555 Zang St., Room 400, Lakewood, CO 80228. Tel: 303-969-5772 x332; Fax: 303-969-6727; Email: Paul.garrett@fhwa.dot.gov.