Grow your skills with this online course that includes field work that can be performed locally.
Product Description
The Certified Wetland Delineator Online Class is an advanced certification program intended for professionals who have completed a series of prerequisite courses and are seeking to further their expertise in wetland delineation in accordance with USACOE standards. This course is meticulously structured to build upon the knowledge and skills acquired from prior foundational courses offered by The Swamp School.
The Certified Wetland Delineator program offers:
- Expert-Level Delineation Skills: Advanced training in the precise identification and delineation of wetland boundaries using state-of-the-art techniques and tools.
- Regulatory Compliance: A thorough understanding of the legal frameworks, including detailed study of the Clean Water Act and the application of USACOE regional supplements.
- Practical Experience: Virtual field exercises designed to simulate complex delineation scenarios, preparing participants for real-world applications.
- Professional Credentials: A certification from The Swamp School, recognized for its rigor and adherence to USACOE guidelines, which can significantly enhance a professional’s qualifications and opportunities in the field.
- Convenient Learning Platform: The course’s online format is designed for self-paced learning, accommodating the busy schedules of working professionals.
This certification is highly valuable for environmental consultants, government agency personnel, environmental scientists, and anyone involved in land development and management, environmental policy, or conservation. Graduates of this program will be recognized as Certified Wetland Delineators, equipped to conduct high-level wetland assessments, lead delineation projects, and provide expert consultations in both the public and private sectors. Wetland determination is a crucial part of the certification process, ensuring that landowners and professionals can accurately identify and verify wetland areas for conservation purposes.
This course consists of twelve online modules in which we will study how to identify areas of land that would be subject to the Clean Water Act and the Rivers and Harbors Act regulations as administered by the US Army Corps of Engineers and the US Environmental Protection Agency. Each module takes about 3-4 hours to complete and students are welcome to compete them at your own pace during the class’ 16-week time frame.
In addition to the modules, there is a field practicum examination that students must schedule with their instructor. The examination is performed at a local wetland site with the teacher monitoring the test virtually. Upon successful completion of the class and a grade of 80% or higher, you will become a Certified Wetland Delineator.
Your certification will be valid for five years and is eligible for renewal with additional continuing education, and you will also be issued an electronic seal that can be used for reports and proposals.
How the Class Works
Prerequisites for this class include:
- Basic Wetland Delineation Training: Fundamental skills in wetland boundary identification and regulatory policies.
- The Swamp School’s Certified Wetland Botanist: Specialization in the identification and ecological roles of wetland plants.
- The Swamp School’s Certified Wetland Hydrologist: Proficiency in understanding wetland hydrological processes and water budgeting.
- The Swamp School’s Certified Hydric Soils Investigator: Expertise in recognizing and analyzing soil conditions indicative of hydric environments.
As a Certified Wetland Delineator (CWD) you will receive a certificate and an electronic seal that can be used for reports and proposals. This certification will remain valid for 5 years and is eligible for renewal with additional continuing education.
Once enrolled, the course will consist of:
- A field work project
- Data collection exercises
- 12 online learning modules, including:
- Video presentations
- Handouts
- Class discussion
- Assignments
- Quizzes
- Final exam
- Instructor-guided virtual field work
Course Overview
The Basic Wetland Delineation course is meticulously designed to provide students with a thorough understanding of the principles and practices essential for wetland delineation. This course meets the requirements for basic wetland delineation training as specified by the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and is recognized by certification programs in many states. Upon successful completion, students will be equipped to apply their knowledge and skills in real-world scenarios, making them invaluable assets to environmental consultants, land developers, and regulatory personnel. This foundational training ensures that participants are well-prepared to tackle the complexities of wetland delineation with confidence and precision.
Wetland Delineation Fundamentals
Wetland delineation is a critical process that involves identifying and mapping the boundaries of wetlands. This course delves into the fundamentals of wetland delineation, teaching students how to apply technical guidelines, field indicators, and regional supplements to accurately determine the presence and extent of wetlands. Key components of the course include the identification of hydrophytic vegetation, hydric soils, and wetland hydrology. By mastering these principles, students will be able to make jurisdictional determinations and navigate challenging delineation scenarios effectively. This comprehensive training ensures that participants are adept at recognizing and documenting wetland boundaries in accordance with regulatory standards.
Regulatory Framework
Understanding the regulatory framework governing wetland conservation and delineation is crucial for professionals in this field. This course provides an in-depth overview of the Wetland Conservation Provisions of the Food Security Act of 1985, the Clean Water Act, and the pivotal role of the USACE in regulating wetlands. Students will learn about the importance of regional supplements and how they are applied in wetland delineation. This knowledge is essential for ensuring compliance with legal requirements and for making informed decisions in wetland management and conservation efforts. The course equips students with the regulatory insights needed to navigate the complexities of wetland delineation and conservation.
Certification Benefits
Upon successful completion of the course, students will receive a certificate of completion, which serves as a testament to their expertise in wetland delineation. This certification is not only a valuable credential for enhancing professional qualifications but also makes the course eligible for continuing education credits. This is an excellent opportunity for professionals to expand their skills and knowledge. Additionally, the course is has been approved by the Society of Wetland Scientists Professional Certification Program (SWSPCP) for continuing education, making it a significant step towards achieving professional certification. This recognition underscores the course’s rigor and the high standards it upholds in wetland delineation training.
