Wetlands Rapid Assessment Methods

Developing an Assessment Protocol

The Wetlands Program has advanced the development and use of a rapid assessment framework to evaluate the ecological condition of wetlands throughout New Mexico. The New Mexico Rapid Assessment Method (NMRAM) was developed as a part of the SWQB Wetlands Program’s on-going efforts to promote effective management and protection of the state’s wetland resources. The overarching goal is to provide the necessary information to help prevent the continued loss and decline of New Mexico’s scarce and important wetland resources.

The NMRAM provides a cost-effective and consistent evidence-based tool for assessing wetland ecological condition and an associated database system to track outcomes (McGraw, Muldavin, and Milford 2018). It uses a select set of observable and relatively easy-to-measure spatial analyses and field indicators (landscape, size, biotic and abiotic metrics) to express the relative condition of a particular wetland site. NMRAM metrics are relative in that they have been developed in the context of a “reference set” of wetlands that vary along an anthropogenic-disturbance gradient. The underlying premise is that wetland condition among similar wetlands will vary along this disturbance gradient, from high quality and functionality with low disturbance to the most degraded with high disturbance.

Which rapid assessment metrics are used and how they are measured varies with wetland type. For consistency, the SWQB Wetlands Program classifies wetlands into broad classes and regional subclasses based on hydrogeomorphic (HGM) factors identified by Brinson (1993) and other features of regional importance. The objective of this classification is to identify groups of wetlands that are relatively homogeneous in terms of structure, process, and function. A regional wetland subclass shares similar characteristics such as hydrology, slope, physical setting, geology, climate, and vegetation. NMRAM metrics are tailored to wetland subclasses to provide consistent and reliable indicators of wetland condition at local scales. For each subclass separate assessment modules of relevant metrics have been developed and are described in the NMRAM Manual Version 2.0 and the associated Field Guides. Field Guides for each assessment module have been developed to provide specific protocols for implementation along with field data sheets in digital and hardcopy form. Data collection using metrics tailored for a wetland subclass allows wetlands within a subclass to be compared equitably across many scales and jurisdictions, and in a variety of project contexts. The ecological condition of a particular site is evaluated and rated as excellent, good, fair, or poor based on a preponderance of evidence from a set of landscape, biological, and abiotic metrics that are sensitive to the gradient.

Another goal of the NMRAM is effective implementation by streamlining training, execution, and reporting. To this end, we have developed a suite of tools which include the NMRAM Manual Version 2.0 with details on the method and underlying rationale; Field Guides for each module with easy-to follow protocols for rapid assessment, and with automated worksheets for efficient and accurate data collection. Web-based tools for uploading data to the SWQB database with report products is under construction at SWQB.

A separate Manual and Field Guide have been created for Spring Ecosystems.  The Manual provides background information on spring ecosystems, and a classification of springs that is important in recognizing biodiversity and microhabitats that each spring type supports. It also provides background information about the types of data that will be collected.  The Springs Ecosystem Field Guide provides and assessment protocols and the data collection worksheets.

As NMRAM is developed for additional subclasses of wetlands, the NMRAM Manual will be updated and future Field Guides will be available here. To obtain interactive data collection worksheets for NMRAM, please contact the SWQB Wetlands Program. For further information on NMRAMs contact Maryann McGraw, Wetlands Program Coordinator at maryann.mcgraw@env.nm.gov.

NMRAM Manual

NMRAM Manual Version 2.0
The NMRAM Manual Version 2.0 (December 2021) provides background information and rationale for the methods and metrics for NMRAM Riverine and Playa wetlands Field Guides that have been developed to date: Montane Riverine Wetlands, Lowland Riverine Wetlands, Confined Valley Riverine Wetlands, Riverine Wetlands Regulatory Version, and Playa Wetlands Southern High Plains. Priority for development of NMRAM modules is based on statewide protection needs and funding availability. As additional rapid assessment methods are developed for New Mexico, the NMRAM Manual will be updated to include those versions as well as any updates to current modules. The NMRAM Manual is intended to be used as reference for the Field Guides for NMRAM modules.

Montane Riverine Wetlands

Montane Riverine Wetlands Field Guide Version 2.5
This Version 2.5 of the New Mexico Rapid Assessment Method (NMRAM) Montane Riverine Wetlands Field Guide provides updated procedures for conducting a rapid ecological assessment of wetlands in the Montane Riverine Wetland subclass. Appendix A, a field Guide Worksheet Packet for the New Mexico Rapid Assessment Method Montane Riverine Wetlands is also available.

Montane riverine wetlands occur along unconfined mountain streams and rivers at elevations between 6,000 and 8,500 ft and in the southern part of the state at elevations as low as 4,800 ft. They generally lie between the subalpine riverine and lowland riverine subclasses. The subclass includes mid-elevation, second- to fourth-order stream segments where valley widths generally exceed 80 m (262 ft) and have a channel width ranging from two to 10 m (6.6–33 ft). Channels have a low degree of confinement from the surrounding landscape and have room for lateral movement leading to moderate sinuosity. Overbank flooding during peak flows plays a major role in developing and sustaining complex floodplains composed of point bars, terraces, and backwater channels that support the wetland communities. The Montane Riverine Wetland subclass also includes wetlands associated with montane riverine channel reaches exhibiting steeper channel slopes (2-4%), but still within a wide valley as a result of their geomorphic context.

The NMRAM Montane Riverine Wetlands Field Guide complements the NMRAM Manual Version 2.0 by providing specific protocols and datasheets for evaluating fourteen wetland ecological condition metrics using a combination of Geographic Information System (GIS)-based measurements and field surveys. In addition to details on metric measurements, appendices are provided that include the data collection worksheets, a reference guide for taking some metric data, a plant species list with wetland indicator status, the state noxious weed list, photo point guidelines and a glossary of terms.

Confined Valley Riverine Wetlands

Confined Valley Riverine Wetlands Field Guide Version 1.3 plus worksheet packet
The NMRAM Confined Valley Riverine Wetlands Field Guide Version 1.3 provides procedures for conducting a rapid ecological assessment of wetlands in the Confined Valley Riverine Wetland subclass of the Riverine Wetland class. Confined valley riverine wetlands are those wetlands found along stream and river channels that are cobble, boulder, and/or bedrock controlled and typically constrained within narrow v-shaped valleys. Lateral migration of channels is limited, and stream channel morphologies range from cascading to a step-pool configuration with intermixed drops over boulders and extended pools. This subclass typically occurs in mountainous regions but can extend down into ravines that cut through plateaus (e.g., tributaries to the Rio Grande Gorge). Elevations range from 4,500 ft to 9,000 ft. Stream channel gradients are greater than 1%.

The NMRAM Confined Valley Riverine Wetlands Field Guide contains specific protocols and datasheets for evaluating ten wetland ecological condition metrics using a combination of GIS-based measurements and field surveys. Appendices include the data collection worksheets, a reference guide for taking some metric data, a list of common dominant plant species with NMRAM wetland indicator status, the New Mexico noxious weed list, photo point guidelines and a glossary of terms. A fillable PDF data collection worksheet packet is provided separately for download. The fillable worksheets calculate and auto-populate some metric fields and calculates scores and ratings facilitating NMRAM data collection.

Playa Wetlands

The NMRAM Playa Wetland Field Guide is now available online to download! Appendix A – Field Guide Worksheet Packet is also available.

The New Mexico Rapid Assessment Method (NMRAM) for Playa Wetlands Field Guide Version 1.2 provides procedures for conducting a rapid ecological assessment of playa wetlands in the Southern High Plains of eastern New Mexico. It complements the NMRAM Manual by providing specific protocols and datasheets for evaluating ten playa wetland ecological condition metrics using a combination of GIS-based measurements and field surveys. In addition to details on metric measurements, appendices are provided that include the data collection worksheets, a plant species list with wetland indicator status, soil sampling guidelines, and a glossary of terms.

The playa wetlands subclass are shallow, ephemeral freshwater wetlands of enclosed micro-basins typically between 1 acre and 10 acres but can be smaller or much larger on occasion.  The are filled by direct precipitation and runoff from the micro-basin and then dried by evaporation, transpiration, and infiltration into the local aquifer over the course of a dry period. Playa wetlands are restricted to the basin floor and the immediate slope up to the annulus as defined by the visual edge and are not groundwater-fed but contribute to aquifer recharge. The basin floor or pan is typically composed of shrink-swell clay soils (vertisols) that allow infiltration through large shrinkage cracks in the basin floor that are later sealed as the clay bottom swells with water inputs. Elevations of playa wetlands in the Southern High Plains range from ~ 4700 ft in the north to 3,000 ft in the south.

NMRAM Manual for Springs Ecosystems

The Rapid Assessment Method for Springs Ecosystems in Southwestern New Mexico Manual Version 1.0 was produced by the Museum of Northern Arizona Springs Stewardship Institute in cooperation with the New Mexico Environment Department Surface Water Quality Bureau Wetlands Program.  Springs—ecosystems where groundwater reaches the Earth’s surface—are among the most biologically, socioculturally, and economically important water resources, particularly in arid regions like New Mexico (Stevens and Meretsky 2008). Many endangered species, and numerous rare or endemic species of plants, invertebrates, amphibians, and fish are found only at springs, and many upland species require springs for water and habitat. Springs also have high cultural and socioeconomic value, often providing the only sources of water for livestock, farms, and ranches as well as some communities. Given the complex hydrological interactions between temperature, precipitation, infiltration, and aquifer dynamics, springs also are sensitive indicators of environmental change.

The purpose of this manual is to provide a framework for understanding current springs conditions, and to provide a standardized rapid assessment method for New Mexico springs ecosystems (Springs NMRAM). This manual presents the information, background, rationale, and discussion to inform those conducting inventory and assessment of springs in southwestern New Mexico.

NMRAM Field Guide for Springs Ecosystems

The purpose of Rapid Assessment Method for Springs Ecosystems in Southwestern New Mexico Field Guide Version 1.0 and worksheet packet is to provide guidance for a standardized rapid assessment method for New Mexico springs ecosystems (Springs NMRAM). This field guide presents information and field worksheets needed for technical staff who are conducting springs wet­land inventory and assessment. The protocol described here includes physical form and function of the springs ecosystems, as well as its biological integrity. The protocol was developed for a holistic inventory and assessment approach that can be easily implemented through­out the state. The inventory protocol includes basic information about the springs location, and may include the springs type, geologic context, photographs, spring flow rate, and access. It also includes a floral and faunal survey, a mea­sure of potential productivity (available solar radia­tion), water chemistry (pH, conductivity, tempera­ture, alkalinity, and dissolved oxygen), substrate, vegetative cover, slope, and aspect. The background, variables, and sampling methods for the rapid assessment are described in this field guide. The worksheets are found in Appendices A and B in the Field Guide.  

Program Essentials

• NMRAM Manual Version 2.0
• Montane Riverine Wetlands Field Guide Version 2.5 plus worksheet packet
• Lowland Riverine Wetlands Field Guide (update coming soon)
• Confined Valley Riverine Wetlands Field Guide Version 1.3 plus worksheet packet
• Playa Wetlands Field Guide
• NMRAM Manual for Springs
• Springs Field Guide