Wetlands data

DEPI holds a number of geospatial data layers for wetlands as part of the DEPI Corporate Geospatial Data Library. The layers are described below.

Ramsar Sites

Wetlands of international importance listed under the Convention on Wetlands (Ramsar, Iran 1971) are known as Ramsar Sites. Ramsar Sites in Victoria are mapped at 1:100,000 on a layer called RAMSAR100. The layer shows the formal boundaries of each site, as described in the Ramsar Information Sheet for each site.

Important wetlands in Australia

This layer called WETLANDDIR shows wetlands listed in 'A Directory of Important Wetlands in Australia'. Wetlands are mapped at 1:100,000. The Directory identifies and describes important wetlands in Australia. The focus of the Directory is to provide information and raise awareness of important wetland values and to assist in land use planning and management.

The layer is designed to be used in conjunction with the Directory which is available on Department of the Environment and Water Resources - Wetlands Web Site . The mapped area for each wetland on the layer matches the description of the wetland in the Directory entry. Wetland descriptions can be accessed from the web site.

Wetlands at the time of European settlement

This layer is called WETLAND_1788 and shows the extent of wetlands prior to European settlement. All wetlands greater than one hectare in area present at the time of European settlement are mapped and classified into categories. A lookup table lists the wetland categories.

Wetlands in 1994

This layer is called WETLAND_1994 and shows the extent of wetlands in 1994. All wetlands greater than one hectare in area are mapped and classified into categories and subcategories. The categories and subcategories are listed in a lookup table.

Ordering data

Enquiries regarding access and supply of these wetlands geospatial layers should be emailed to data.vsdl@dse.vic.gov.au.

When ordering the WETLAND_1788 or WETLAND_1994 layers, users should specifically request that the lookup table for wetland categories is supplied with the data.