The role of a Wetland Scientist – also called a Wetland Delineator – at Midland Wetland Improvements combines technical expertise and dynamic fieldwork across the Upper Midwest. Our team works on projects throughout Minnesota, Wisconsin, North Dakota, and South Dakota to restore and protect vital ecosystems that serve as nature’s filtration systems and wildlife habitats.
The Early Bird Gets the Data
A typical workday begins around 7:00 a.m., when a wetland scientist prepares for field visits that could be local or several hours away. For this reason, we often carpool together as a team when we can. Also, an early start maximizes daylight hours for data collection and allows our team to beat the heat and the mosquitos in the summer months.
We pack our vehicles with supplies that include water-resistant shoes, boots, GPS units, tablets, soil augers, spades, field guides, datasheets, first aid kits, bug spray, head nets for mosquitoes, sunscreen, water for hydration, and lunch.
Every season requires different working patterns, with more outdoor time in the spring, summer, and fall, and more indoor hours logged in the cold winter months.
Growing Season: Intense Field Work
Spring marks the beginning of our intensive field season, and this continues through the early fall. Our Westland Scientists work alongside botanists, soil scientists and hydrogeologists to document emerging vegetation and assess water levels.
Data collection requires:
- Soil sampling (digging, up to 36 inches, to check for hydric soils and groundwater) for hydric soil indicators.
- Vegetation surveys to identify dominant species, cover percentages, and dominance of vegetation for hydrophytic vegetation indicators.
- Measuring ground water depths, noting inundation marks, landscape positions, standing waters, and saturation for the presence of wetland hydrology indicators.
- Marking wetland boundaries and features with flagging.
- Taking detailed field notes and photographs.
Wetland Scientists / Wetland Delineators use aerials, maps, and GPSs to locate potential wetland areas for sampling and for recording the boundaries that they delineate.
This season is also when collaboration with our Water Resources Engineers becomes crucial, as we develop comprehensive restoration strategies based on in-season observations. The workdays can be long, but the data collected during this period is fundamental to project success. The field season also involves regular interaction with regulatory agencies and project stakeholders.
On rainy days, Wetland Scientists / Wetland Delineators work remotely or in an office to upload GPS data, compile delineation reports and USACE datasheets, finish GIS mapping such as ArcGIS and Google Earth Pro, and complete meetings with other stakeholders. They also spend time preparing wetland mitigation bank documentation and figures.
Dormant Season: Indoors and Out of the Field
Winter shifts our operations indoors, offering more flexible hours and focused technical work. Wetland Scientists / Wetland Delineators analyze field data, prepare detailed reports, and plan future restorations.
Responsibilities shift to submitting paperwork to the Army Corps of Engineers and other local agencies, as well as working on GIS mapping, desktop wetland assessments, and permit applications. It’s also important to prepare for the upcoming field season by reviewing historical aerials, soil surveys, NWI maps, and LIDAR for new projects.
The off-season is also the perfect opportunity to engage in professional development opportunities. Wetland Scientists / Wetland Delineators can take courses and certifications to hone their skill sets and enhance their professional credentials.
In some cases, occasional fieldwork may be required, such as assisting with stream channel surveys and winter tree identifications and inventories.
Wetland Professionals Enjoy Rewarding Work
Working at Midland Wetland Improvements encompasses more than field studies and technical reports. Our team members contribute to environmental conservation while working with diverse stakeholders, from private landowners to public agencies.
Every project varies in scope and location, offering opportunities to work across different ecosystems and jurisdictions. Each position combines environmental stewardship with technical problem-solving, creating tangible positive impacts on regional water quality and habitat preservation.
Building a Future in Wetland Science
We are always interested in talking to people interested in this field of work. For those interested in joining a team like ours, wetland science offers a dynamic career path.
The Wetland Scientist / Wetland Delineator role demands technical expertise, adaptability, and a commitment to environmental stewardship. People working in this job receive opportunities to work with multiple disciplines, travel throughout the Upper Midwest, and will contribute to meaningful environmental restoration projects.
If you or someone you know is ready to make an impact in environmental conservation, send us an email to learn more about our current openings.
Recent Comments