Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book discusses alternative methods for identifying and delineating wetlands, with definitions of boundaries encompassing a wide array of "wetlands" including marshes, bogs, swamps, fens, pocosins, and wet meadows. It outlines how stream power is reduced by infiltration rates and gentler slope gradients. The book describes the criteria currently in use, the problems associated with the procedures, and the merits of a classification system for identification of wetlands. It also describes how the boundaries between wetlands and other components of the landscape are important transition zones between upland and aquatic ecosystems. The book also discusses the impact of shallow subsurface water flows in the root zone and the nature of land use changes. It examines the question of wetlands as buffers and buffers for wetlands. The book reviews thinking on critical research needs and the need for environmental monitoring.