This three-day intensive workshop will provide wetland regulators and consultants with practical information and experience in using the 2014 update to the rating system for wetlands in western Washington. It is specifically designed for those who will be using the rating system in the field. You will gain a working knowledge of topics such as the hydrogeomorphic classification of wetlands, how to separate wetlands into units for rating, and how to answer all the questions on the field form. The purpose of the class is to provide you with knowledge so that you can fill out the rating form on your own. You will receive a copy of the rating system manual.

It is important that you already have some experience and/or education in delineating wetlands and identifying natural wetland features such as outlets, boundaries of basins, vegetation classes, and some ability to distinguish between different plant species.

This course will include two required virtual sessions on Zoom on 3/14 (9:00 am - 12:30 pm) and 3/15 (9:00 am - 12:00 pm). Participants will visit sites with the instructor in Thurston County on 3/16 (9 am - 4:30 pm). The sites are located at the Woodland Creek Community Park in Lacey, WA and Capitol Lake Interpretive Park in Olympia, WA. Please note that it is mandatory to attend the virtual sessions on 3/14 and 3/15 and in-person field session on 3/16 in order to obtain your certification for the rating system (13.5 CM AICP Credits/CEP Points). 

Lunch will be provided during the field session.

All participants will be expected to follow Washington Department of Ecology’s COVID-19 guidelines at the time of the training. Specifically, you will be asked to wear a mask during the field session.

Link to rating system:
https://fortress.wa.gov/ecy/publications/SummaryPages/1406029.html

Instructor: 

Dr. Amy Yahnke is the senior wetland ecologist for the Shorelands and Environmental Assistance Program at the Washington State Department of Ecology. She holds a Certificate in Wetland Science and Management, BS in Environmental Horticulture, MS in Forest Resources, and PhD in Aquatic and Fishery Sciences. She has studied wetland ecology within the contexts of amphibians, invasive plants, and stormwater management. Dr. Yahnke has experience teaching a wide range of environmental topics to audiences of all ages.