Wetland Health Evaluation Program (WHEP)

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General Description

WHEP volunteers annually monitor and evaluate wetland health based on species diversity and population of macroinvertebrates (dragonflies, snails, etc) and plants. Volunteers use wetland assessment protocols and provide valuable wetland data to their local decision-makers.

Volunteers work in city-based teams and are guided by team leaders. Volunteers have a wide variety of backgrounds but all share an interest in understanding and protecting wetlands.

The valuable data collected during the season is shared with local decision-makers to help give a better picture of local water quality and wetland biodiversity and health.

Location/Date/Time

Registration will begin March 2019. Each person will join a team designated by city of choice. The event schedule is determined by the team leader from each city and varies with each team. The program runs May through August (various dates and times determined by team and city). Schedules are available in May.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Participate in group outings as assigned by the group
• Help collect samples
• Participate in lab work
• Attend the assigned trainings

Minimum Qualifications

• Able to stand for periods of time in uneven terrain
• Enjoys working in groups outdoors
• Doesn’t mind working in a wet environment
• Some weekend hours required
• If under 16, must be accompanied by an adult (18 or older)

Minimum Time Commitment

20 - 40 hours during the summer season, hours vary by volunteer

Activity Level

Active - Involves physical exertion for an extended period of time; can involve rough, uneven or steep terrain. Not recommended for volunteers with physical limitations.

Recommended Training

No current experience is required. All trainings are provided for by the county. Below are the three training sessions and locations. Each trainings will be held in the morning and end around noon.

Training

Field Methods and Intro to WHEP

Date

Tues., May 21

Location

Dakota Lodge, Thompson Park

Macroinvertebrate Identification

Sat., June 1

Inver Hills Community College

Vegetation Identification

Sat. June 29

Normandale Community College

Other Information

http://www.mnwhep.org

Contact Information

Garrett Zaffke | Community Relations and Volunteer Services Coordinator

Dakota County Communications

1590 Highway 55| Hastings, MN 55033

Direct: (651) 438-4635 | Fax: (651) 438-4405 Email: garrett.zaffke@co.dakota.mn.us