The report is based on over five years of data from a monitoring program that includes natural, created and restored wetlands. Major research objectives are to: (1) develop performance criteria, (2) track the development of projects, and (3) suggest improvements in the design of future projects. The research uses natural wetlands in a region as models to define standards for restored and created wetland projects. Finally, Chapter 6 illustrates how data collected from local natural wetlands can, and should, be used to improve project design.

Includes bibliographical references (pages 135-146) and index.

1. Terms used -- The WRP approach and its applications -- Key concepts. 2. Minimum information needed -- Features of EPA's permit tracking system -- Incorporating additional information -- Reporting the information. 3. Deciding on a sampling strategy -- Identifying priority areas -- Selecting sites -- Defining the boundaries of a study area -- Defining and sampling the population of natural wetlands -- Finalizing the list of projects and natural wetlands to be sampled. 4. Documentation of as-built conditions -- Routine assessments -- Comprehensive assessments -- Assessment variables -- Developing an efficent sampling strategy. 5. Suggested ways to represent the data collected -- Techniques for determining differences in samples -- Evaluating projects abd setting performance criteria. 6. Wetland type -- Vegetation -- Other important structural characteristics.