After establishing a common vocabulary in the study of wetlands, students will gather data regarding the vegetation, hydrology, and soil composition of several wetland types including swamps, marshes and peatlands. After returning from the discovery hike, students will analyze their data.

Outcomes

Upon completion of the Wetlands Ecology class, students will be able to:

• Define what determines a wetland and distinguish between several types of Minnesota wetlands.
• Summarize the formation and distribution of wetlands in MN and the US.
• Explain three values inherent in natural, undisturbed wetlands.
• Recommend actions to preserve healthy wetland environments.