Wetland Functional Assessment

The public value of wetlands is based on the functions they provide. In Minnesota, the Wetland Conservation Act (WCA) regulatory program identifies the primary functions that the public value of wetlands is based upon (Minnesota Rules 8420.0522 Subpart 1). The Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources (BWSR) as the oversight agency for WCA implementation is authorized to approve wetland evaluation methods for use in Minnesota. Currently, the Minnesota Routine Assessment Method (MnRAM) and A Regional Guidebook for Applying the Hydrogeomorphic Approach to Assessing Wetland Functions of Prairie Potholes have been approved for use in Minnesota. Updates and support for MnRAM have waned over the past decade as new approaches to wetland functional assessment have been developed nationally. BWSR no longer provides support for the MnRAM, however, the excel spreadsheet version is still functional. As of 10/22/2025 a new method (WI/MN Wetland Rapid Assessment Method) has been released for general use. BWSR will accept any feedback on the method until 5/15/2026, after which time any necessary final revisions will be made before going to the BWSR board for consideration of approval for use in Minnesota. It is anticipated that if/when this new method is approved for use, MnRAM will be removed as an approved method.

WI/MN Wetland Rapid Assessment Method (Coming 10/22/2025)

WI/MN Wetland Rapid Assessment Method Spreadsheet Tool (xls) (October 2025)

WI/MN Wetland Rapid Assessment Method User Guide (pdf) (October 2025)

WI/MN Wetland Rapid Assessment Method Scientific Support Document (pdf) (October 2025)

HGM Prairie Pothole Regional Guidebook

This method is specific to depressional, palustrine, herbaceous, temporarily and seasonally ponded wetlands formed in glacial till in the Prairie Pothole Region (see map on page 27 of pdf document below). 

A Regional Guidebook for Applying the Hydrogeomorphic Approach to Assessing Wetland Functions of Prairie Potholes (pdf)

MnRAM

While the principles and logic behind MnRAM remain sound, using MnRAM output as the sole means to compare wetlands when making wetland permitting/impact decisions is discouraged by BWSR. MnRAM lacks the precision to make very specific comparisons in these situations. However, MnRAM outputs can be useful when used in conjunction with other characteristics and professional judgment. 

MnRAM Excel spreadsheet (xls)

MnRAM Text Version (pdf)

MnRAM Comprehensive General Guidance (pdf)

MnRAM Guidance on Selected Questions (pdf)

MnRAM Wetland Management Classification System Guidance (pdf)