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• Numerous wetland assessment methodologies have been developed and utilized over the past couple <br /> of decades. The most common wetland assessment methodology used in Minnesota has been the <br /> Minnesota Routine Assessment Method for Determining Wetland Functions commonly referred to as <br /> "MNRAM." The second version of MNRAM was released in fall, 1998 after a one-year testing <br /> period. None of the existing methodologies sufficiently met the goals established for the project. <br /> However;the MNR.AM 2.0 contained enough of the basic data and concepts�desired to serve as a <br /> , starting point. Using'MNRAM 2.0 and numerous other wetland assessment methodologies, a new <br /> methodology was developed following the general steps outlined below: <br /> l. A list of wetland functions and values which would be evaluated resulting in only minor <br /> modifications to the functions included in MNRAM. <br /> 2. A catalog of unique questions was developed that evaluated parameters directly contributing <br /> to determining wetland functions based on scientific research. Instead of leaving questions <br /> vague and requiring the use of professional judgement, questions were compiled which <br /> provided ratings based on clear and concise descriptions of exclusive conditions which could <br /> be consistently applied by professionals of varying education and experience. � <br /> � 3. A list of approximately 64 questions were developed which would characterize the 9 primarily <br /> , wetland functions and 3 primarily wetland values that were chosen. <br /> 4. Functional rating formulas were then established (beginning with the basic functiona] rating <br /> � guidance from MNR.AM 2.0) and drawing on concepts from the Hydrogeomorphic Wetland <br /> Assessment Methodologies (HGM) and based on the best scientific data available. <br />� The Minnehaha Creek Routine Assessment Method for Determining Wetland Functions (McRAM) <br /> was developed by the project team with input from various other wetland professionals.The McRAM <br /> is provided in Appendix B. The entire methodology was programmed into a Microsoft�Access <br /> database to provide the following benefits: <br /> 1. Could be used to enter data directly in the field, � <br /> 2. Allowed for compilation of large quantities of wetland data, <br /> 3. Programmed to easily provide reports by subwatershed, watershed, or city, <br /> 4. Will allow for future statistical analyses on.any of the data parameters or functional ratings, <br /> 5. T'he ability to alter functional rating formulas based on new scientific research, and <br /> 6. Linked to GIS for report preparation, spatial analysis, and daily operational use. <br /> \\fred\wp�23�2TD06�Reports�Fina1 Report\Wetland mgmt�lan dR011503.doc 4-11 <br />