The Service's definition and classification system provides standardization of concepts and terms used to describe the biological limit of wetland types found in the United States, and is used nationwide by many Federal, State, and local agencies as part of the management of their wetland resources.

NOTE: The FGDC endorsed the Wetlands Mapping Standard in July 2009. The purpose of this standard is to support accurate mapping and classification of wetlands, while ensuring mechanisms for their revisions and update as directed under OMB Circular A-16, Revised. It is designed to direct the current and future digital mapping of wetlands. This mapping standard will be used for all wetland mapping nationally including Federal Agencies, States, Tribes, especially if that mapping data will be uploaded into NWI/The National Map as a data layer. Specifically, if Federal funding is involved, then use of the proposed Standard is required. For all other efforts, use of the standard is strongly encouraged. More information about the Wetlands Mapping Standard is available here - FGDC Wetland Mapping Standard.

Part 270, FW 6, Data Management and Standards, has been superceded by Part 274, FW 2, Establishing Service Data Standards.

Part 660, FW 2, Wetlands Classification System.

Federal Geographic Data Committee Formally Adopts Wetlands Classification Standard, December 17, 1996.

Adoption of the Federal Standard for Wetlands Classification, August 4, 1997.