| Wetland Categories A system of wetland classification developed by Corrick and Norman (1980)* is used to describe wetlands in Victoria. Under this system six naturally occurring wetland types are described based on water depth, frequency of inundation, salinity and dominant vegetation · Freshwater meadow These include shallow (up to 0.3 m) and temporary (less than four months duration) surface water, although soils are generally waterlogged throughout winter. · Shallow freshwater marsh Wetlands that are usually dry by mid-summer and fill again with the onset of winter rains. Soils are waterlogged throughout the year and surface water up to 0.5 m deep may be present for as long as eight months. · Deep freshwater marsh Wetlands that generally remain inundated to a depth of 1 – 2 m throughout the year. · Permanent open freshwater Wetlands that are usually more than 1 m deep. They can be natural or artificial. Wetlands are described to be permanent if they retain water for longer than 12 months, however they can have periods of drying. · Semi-permanent saline These wetlands may be inundated to a depth of 2 m for as long as eight months each year. Saline wetlands are those in which salinity exceeds 3,000 mg/L throughout the whole year. · Permanent saline These wetlands include coastal wetlands and part of intertidal zones. Saline wetlands are those in which salinity exceeds 3,000 mg/L throughout the whole year. *Corrick, A.H. and Norman, F.I. 1980 Wetlands of Victoria 1. Wetlands and waterbirds of the Snowy River and Gippsland Lakes Catchment. Proceedings of the Royal Society of Victoria. 91: 1-15 |     |
