Tracking wetland vegetation
Monitoring detects invasive spread, hydrologic failure, and recovery progress. Protocols must be repeatable across years and observers.
Standard methods
- Establish permanent transects from water edge to upland.
- Record species cover by zone using Braun-Blanquet or percent cover classes.
- Map invasive patches with GPS for treatment tracking.
- Photograph fixed points each visit.
Indicator species
Presence of sensitive natives (e.g., certain orchids, sedges) signals good hydrology. Dominance by reed canary grass or purple loosestrife signals degradation or incomplete restoration.
Data sharing
Contribute to regional wetland databases for landscape-scale assessment of wetland loss and gains.