Wetlands are areas that stay wet often enough to support specific types of plants and soils adapted to saturated conditions. To be considered a wetland, an area must show:

1. Wetland Vegetation – Plants that thrive in wet soils

2. Wetland Soils – Soils that show signs of long-term saturation

3. Wetland Hydrology – Evidence of standing water or past flooding

Even if water is not present at the time of inspection, signs such as water-stained tree trunks, drift lines, sediment deposits, or swollen tree bases can indicate wetland conditions.

Our experienced wetland scientists use approved federal and state methods to determine the precise location of the wetland boundary. We apply our expertise in botany, soil science, and hydrology to collect accurate field data and document all findings.

Every delineation includes a comprehensive findings report, which may be shared with your engineer, land surveyor, and regulatory agencies as needed. Reports typically include:

• Field data sheets

• Written descriptions

• Maps and flagged boundary locations

• Photographs Guidance on how the wetlands may affect your development plans

Depending on your project’s needs, reports can be submitted to:

• Local Conservation Commissions (MA)

• Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection

• Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management

• Rhode Island Coastal Resources Management Council

• U.S. Army Corps of Engineers