Welcome to J.D. Knowles & Associates, Inc.  

Full Service Environmental Professionals

The purpose of a wetland delineation is to determine the existence and extent of wetlands within a parcel of land.   

At JDK, our staff utilizes the techniques and procedures contained within the Corps of Engineers 1987 Wetland Delineation Manual, Technical Report Y-87-1 (1987 Manual) to determine wetland/upland boundary locations.  A walk through assessment of the project area is done to determine site condition, location of wetlands, and types of upland habitat.  The delineated wetland area is flagged and surveyed.  The resultant surveyed data is saved in a DXF or shapefile file to the client and/or engineer.     

Observations are made at representative sample points along transects.  Transects are dug perpendicular to the edge of plant communities with sample points as close together as feasible.  Soils, hydrology, and vegetation are examined to determine the wetland boundary line.  Data is collected and recorded on Routine Wetland Determination forms.  Digital photographs are taken of the wetland and adjacent uplands areas. 

As part of this effort, a review of United States Geological Survey (USGS) maps, ortho-digital photos, and United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) soil maps is conducted.  In addition to using the 1987 Manual, Field Indicators of Hydric Soils in the United States, A Guide for Identifying and Delineating Hydric Soils, Version 5.01, 2003 is used.  Also, the presence or absence of hydric soil inclusions is investigated and recorded on the data sheets.

After the field work is completed our staff generates an in-depth report discussing the results of the delineation.

We have successfully completed over 300 wetland delineations throughout Wisconsin.  In addition, we specialize in conducting a broad range of natural resources assessments and site surveys.

For more information, please contact our office at the number listed below.

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Last modified: 09/12/08