Wetland Mapping and Classification Methodology

The Queensland Wetland Mapping and Classification methodology was designed to build on and incorporate existing knowledge into a consistent and comprehensive wetland mapping product. It is also part of the development of a wetlands inventory database. The method combines aquatic ecosystem characteristics with regional ecosystems protocols and other wetland information. It is not reliant on detailed field assessment.

The method has six steps:
1.    Gather and process data including water body mapping derived from multi-temporal satellite images, drainage mapping, regional ecosystem mapping, Queensland 3NM limit and springs database.
2.    Undertake water body map development and classification. An automated process combines classified satellite imagery, Geodata and remnant RE water features to produce a water body coverage with water regime modifiers that indicate the degree of water permanency and a preliminary system level of classification. The water body layer is manually assessed for spatial consistency and accuracy, errors and exclusions. Salinity and local hydrology/disturbance modifiers are attributed manually. 
3.    Allocate regional ecosystems (REs) to water bodies using a GIS program that picks the most appropriate intersecting RE. An automated tool checks the validity of the RE codes and the water body type. Mismatches are checked manually and the master list of wetland REs is updated.
4.    Reconcile and update mapping products (RE preclearing, RE remnant and water body maps). Remnant and precleared RE mapping is updated by adding the wetland body to the RE coverage in accordance with decision rules. The water body map is updated manually by attributing lacustrine or palustrine systems.
5.    Generate draft wetland map by combining the water bodies map from Step 4 and the RE wetland map from Step 4, drainage lines from Geodata and springs point data.
6.    Refine wetlands map through internal quality control and expert panel. Some ground truthing and a review by a panel with expertise in wetlands related fields will be used to review the draft map and prepare the final version.

Updating as remote sensing technology develops and additional data becomes available is planned.

• To provide a baseline map of wetlands in Queensland.

• A water body coverage at 1:1000,000 scale based on multi-temporal satellite images.
• Improved Regional Ecosystem coverage for wetlands.
• A pre-cleared wetland map.
• A wetlands map of Queensland at 1:100,000 or 1:50,000.

• Support policy development.
• Guide investment in natural resource management funding.
• Guide local government planning.
• Improve protection of wetlands through vegetation

management processes.

• Can guide acquisitions and conservaiton agreements.
• provides a sound basis for coastal planning.

• Uses existing, primarily remotely sensed data.
• Provides consistent wetland definition and mapping.
• Makes use of existing, proven techniques for aquatic ecosystem classification and assessment.
• Main classess of wetlands are consistent with Queensland Water Quality Guidelines.
• Can be updated consistently as more information becomes available.

• The scale of mapping is limited by the scale of the base information to 1:100,000 or 1:50,000.
• Extensive ground truthing has not occurred.
• The wetland definition used excludes floodplains.

A hierarchical system, based on Cowardin et al (1979) but modified for a rapid classification process. Wetlands are mapped using water body mapping and regional ecosystems mapping. They are placed in a drainage division and then a basin or catchment. They are classified to an ecological system level. Water regime, salinity, local hydrology/disturbance modifiers are then applied.

Expertise in satellite image processing and vegetation mapping, multi-temporal satellite images, satellite images for period of maximun inundation, regional ecosystem mapping, geodata, aerial photography, salinity, site data, experts to combine water body mapping and remnant regional ecosystems and to apply modifiers and an expert panel.

The initial statewide mapping is expected to take several years

Water body mapping, drainage mapping, regional ecosystem mapping, limit of Queensland waters, springs location database and disturbance and.salinity information.

Expertise is needed to use the method and adapt it to other situations. Its results would be useful for government agencies, NRM bodies, catchment managers.

Cowardin, L.M., Carter, V., Golet, F.C. and LaRoe, E.T. (1979). Classification of wetlands and deepwater habitats of the United States. U.S. Department of the Interior, Fish and Wildlife Service.
Environmental Protection Agency (2005) Wetland Mapping and Classification Methodology  Overall Framework  A Method to Provide Baseline Mapping and Classification for Wetlands in Queensland,
Version 1.2 Queensland Government, Brisbane.