Wetland monitoring
Monitoring the health of our wetlands is important because wetlands provide numerous benefits to our community:
- Absorb water to reduce flooding
- Filter nutrients and pollutants in storm water
- Recharge groundwater
- Provide fish and wildlife habitat
- Provide aesthetic and cultural benefits
The city of Minnetonka monitors wetlands using the help of volunteers trained through the Minnesota Wetland Health Evaluation Program. The program uses methods developed by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency to establish health indices based on species diversity and species richness. Volunteers receive professional training and work in teams directed by experienced leaders to collect data on plants and invertebrates. Data is summarized in an annual report and reviewed by city staff to determine the health of our water resources.
Training begins in May. Fieldwork and lab work extend from May to July. Volunteers generally commit a total of 40 to 50 hours. No previous experience or scientific knowledge is required to participate, and all necessary equipment is provided. If you would like more information about this program or are interested in volunteering to help monitor Minnetonka wetlands, please contact Aaron Schwartz, Natural Resource Specialist, in March or April, at 952.988.8422.
