CRS-38 



regions. Scientists have developed a complex taxonomic structure for differ- 

 entiating wetlands. For example, the Fish and Wildlife Service's current 

 scientific classification system identifies 55 classes of wetlands and deep- 

 water habitats. If These have complex names such as tidal rocky shore, or 

 intertidal scrub-shrub wetland. 



Scientists and Wetland Managers 



Two distinct interests in wetlands have evolved during the past years. 

 One is the study of wetlands, or wetland science. The other is management of 

 wetlands through regulations designed to control their modification, either 

 through prohibiting or modifying changes or through enhancing certain funtions. 

 These interests overlap considerably. Research results contribute to an under- 

 standing of wetlands that will, in theory, lead to an improved management pro- 

 gram. Management programs have been designed to protect the functions and 

 values articulated by scientists. These programs have become more prominent 

 at a time when a growing number of wetland areas have been altered and when 

 scientists are learning more about functions and values. While management 

 programs and science often work together, they have significant differences. 

 These differences include defining the extent of wetland areas of interest, 

 on the one hand, and concerns for the functions and values of wetlands on the 

 other. While both interests agree that wetlands are described by the qualities 

 described in the preceding subsection, they define the term in different ways. 



Wetland science takes an expansive and flexible approach to the subject. 

 The most recent national scientific classification system was developed and 



2/ U.S. Department of the Interior, Fish and Wildlife Service, Office of 

 Biological Services. Classification of Wetlands and Deepwater Habitats of 

 the United States. FWS/OBS-79/31 . Prepared by Lewis Cowardin, et al. Wash- 

 ington, U.S. Govt. Print. Off., Dec 1979. p. 50. 



