Sampling Protocol and Design

FIGURE 15.6 Approximate response and tnrnover times of the material present in soil and water colnmn. 

Nutrient inputs to a wetland can occur at various geographic locations from point and nonpoint sources. The effects of nutrient loading are usually patterned with impacted zones adjacent to inflow points and unimpacted zones furthest away from them. Thus, monitoring stations should be located in both impacted and unimpacted zones to accurately quantify differential nutrient loads. Biogeochemical indicator selection and evaluation requires systematic steps, before the selected indicators can be incorporated into routine monitoring programs. 

Degraded wetlands. Wetlands in which the level of anthropogenic perturbance interferes with designated uses. 

High-risk wetlands. Wetlands where anthropogenic impacts are high but do not significantly impair designated uses. In high-risk systems impairment is prevented by one or a 

Low-risk wetlands. Wetlands where many factors prevent impairment, and stressors are maintained below problem levels. 

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