ABSTRACT
Within the hydrogeomorphic framework for classifying wetlands and understanding their functional processes, wetlands are described and grouped according to their geomorphology, water source, and hydrodynamics. By geomorphology, we mean the larger landscape and watershed setting within which the wetland occurs. The geomorphology of wetlands is largely responsible for the focusing of surface water or groundwater so as to maintain saturation, flooding, or ponding for significant periods of time. Typical examples might be upland depressions or flood plains along riverine systems. Alternatively, in the case of tidal or fringing wetlands, the geomorphological setting places the wetlands at an elevation and location in close proximity to a significant water body, such as an estuary or lake.
