Wetlands – NWI – Plant Community

This data layer depicts the Simplified Plant Community Classification (SPCC) system of the updated National Wetlands Inventory (NWI). It was developed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. The SPCC is based on the Wetland Plants and Plant Communities of Minnesota and Wisconsin (Eggers & Reed 2011). The NWI was updated using 2011 spring imagery, Lidarelevation data, and other ancillary data. Wetlands are highly valued for their ecological contributions. They provide habitat for a variety of plants and animals and improve water quality. Minnesota's wetlands are also legally protected - any loss of wetlands in the state must be mitigated through an associated restoration project.