Does anyone know of any studies, papers, or surveys that have been completed (published or unpublished) that has examined the educational background of wetland delineators?

I'd like this information for a paper I am writing, and despite an exhasutive literature search, I can't seem to find anything. I've managed to find several articles on training and education of future wetland scientists and delineators (i.e. Wilcox, 2008; Anderson & Anderson, 2009; etc.), but what I'm really looking for is data on the educational background of individuals who conduct routine wetland delineations (I am purposely excluding comprehensive delineations since these usually require a team as opposed to a single individual).

Any tips or suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

New Hampshire has certified wetland scientists (delineators). The application contains educational requirements.
www.nh.gov/jtboard/wsap.doc
You could also contact the Joint Board for information on certified people.

Check with the Association of State Wetland Managers website for a list of states that require registration. http://aswm.org/

I would then check the educational requirements for registration in those states. As for states that do not require registration the backgrounds are all over the place.

You could also post a short questionnaire here, I am sure some of us would be willing to help you out with some background information for your study.

Joseph Dixon said:

"...what I'm really looking for is data on the educational background of individuals who conduct routine wetland delineations..."

Dear Joseph,
Many wetland delineators are well educated in environmental science, botany, soils, etc., but often lack the legal training that is necessary to comprehend the complexities of wetlands law and protect the rights of land owners.

Many delineators tend to avoid dealing with the details and difficulties of determining whether the wetlands they delineate actually satisfy the legal criteria for jurisdiction under the Clean Water Act, and leave this important task to regulatory personel. As a result, jurisdictional determinations are often biased in favor of the agency's legal opinions.

Land owners who wish to protect their property rights should inquire about a prospective delineator's legal training and jurisdictional philosophy.

Slim pickin's, ain't it, Johnny? Good to see you weigh-in on this one.

quote:

Many wetland delineators are well educated in environmental science, botany, soils, etc.,

This is actually the type of data I am looking for, and unfortunately, it appears it simply doesn't exist, not in any useable context anyway.

As to the legal aspects and landowners rights, I appreciate the input, but this has no relevance to the question I had asked. Perhaps I should have provided more information, I was (and am) only seeking information on the educational background of those who conduct the on-site, in the field component of a wetland delineation (the science of a delineation as opposed to the legal or regulatory aspects of it).

Thanks again for everyone's input, I appreciate it.

Have you considered contacting those companies that offer wetland delineation training to see if they collect this type of information?