Description

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In the revised and expanded edition of this classic guide, Ralph W. Tiner introduces readers to the ecology and beauty of the wetlands in eastern North America. Topics include their formation and functions, wetland types, causes of loss and degradation, and recent efforts to protect them. The discussion now includes many examples from the Great Lakes region and information on best management practices for working in and around wetlands including vernal pools. A new chapter on classification and assessment further clarifies how the unique characteristics of these important natural resources serve specific functions.

In Search of Swampland alsoprovides a field guide to wetland plants, soils, and animals. It includes detailed descriptions and illustrations—many of which are new to this edition—of more than 300 plants and 200 animals. Clear identification keys, information on how to distinguish typical hydric or “wet” soils from dryland soils, and general procedures for identifying wetlands in the field make this book an indispensable resource for readers with little or no training in wetland science, as well as for the scientist or amateur naturalist.

About the Author

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Ralph W. Tiner is a wetland ecologist with over forty years of experience in wetland identification, classification, and mapping. During that time, he directed the National Wetlands Inventory for the northeastern U.S. and served as an adjunct professor at the University of Massachusetts in Amherst where he taught courses in wetland ecology and delineation.  He currently teaches wetland short courses for Rutgers Office of Continuing Professional Education.

Praise For…

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Tiner, a noted wetlands ecologist, has an evident affection for swamps, marshes, and bogs. In this readable yet comprehensive book, he proves to be an enthusiastic guide to all aspects of the wetland environment. In the first section, he gives a narrative description of wetland formation, function, and value. In addition to in-depth explanations of wetland science, Tiner offers the reader a view of ancillary sciences such as hydrology and archaeology. He concludes here with a chapter on the status of wetlands, reviewing trends in their destruction and protection. In the second half of the book he presents an identification guide with descriptions and line drawings of wetland plants and animals. He also includes a chapter on hydric soils, the swampy and soggy ground underlying all wetlands. Recommended as a good introduction to wetland ecology for academic and larger public libraries. —Randy Dykhuis, Michigan Library Consortium, Lansing
— Library Journal

Ralph Tiner transforms 'wastelands' into national treasures. His book provides an accessible introduction to wetland ecology and management for students, the public, and wetland scientists.
— Aram JK Calhoun