ABSTRACT

Tidal marshes are unique ecosystems that provide essential habitat and protection for wildlife and people, respectively (Titus 1988; Dreyer and Niering 1995; NECIA 2007; Tiner 2013). Historically, tidal marshes have been poorly managed and viewed as expendable resulting in loss and degradation in the United States. In the State of Connecticut, 30% of the coastal wetlands have been destroyed through human activities (Dreyer and Niering 1995) and virtually all remaining areas were ditched

Introduction ....................................................................................................................................265 Current Tidal Marsh Classication Techniques and Methods .......................................................266