Washington field crew surveying wetland dominated by sedges during the 2021 National Wetland Condition Assessment
May is American Wetlands Month — 31 days to celebrate the unique role wetlands play in the overall health of Washington’s streams, rivers, lakes, ponds and marine waters.
As we celebrate wetlands this May, join us in learning more about these important ecosystems and their functions and condition.
Did you know many wetlands in Washington are in poor condition?
Collecting water samples at an emergent marsh in southwest Washington
Beginning this month through September, our wetland field crew will be out in the field collecting data at 26 randomly selected wetland sites across Washington, as part of the 2026 National Wetland Condition Assessment.
The information we collect will help build a better understanding about the actual ecological health of the nation’s wetlands. We will be sampling vegetation, soils, hydrology, algae, water chemistry, and potential disturbances, or “stressors,” at each site.
Identifying plant species within a vegetation plot
Conducted nationally every five years, the 2026 assessment is the fourth collaborative survey since 2011. In addition to wetlands, other National Aquatic Resource Surveys examine the conditions of U.S. lakes, coastal areas, and rivers and streams.
Past surveys have revealed many wetlands in Washington are in poor condition, mostly due to the presence of non-native plant species such as reed canary grass. Non-native plants displace native wetland vegetation, reduce biodiversity and degrade habitat for fish and wildlife.
Observing a soil sample and identifying the color using a Munsell Soil Color chart
We also learned wetlands are important reservoirs for storing carbon, but this ability is sensitive to disturbances, such as roads and development, in and around the wetlands.
Our participation in the 2026 national wetland survey supports the monitoring and assessment element of the state's wetland program plan. The state's goal is to identify the extent and types of wetlands in Washington, including their condition and ability to provide critical environmental functions. The data we gather this summer will also help us detect changes, identify stressors, and characterize wetland trends over time to inform better decision making.
It is part of our overall work to protect, restore and manage Washington’s wetlands using a range of different programs, tools, and activities.