This two-day intensive workshop will provide wetland regulators and consultants with practical information and experience in using the revised rating system for wetlands in eastern Washington. It is specifically designed for those who will be using the rating system in the field. You will gain a working knowledge of topics such as the hydrogeomorphic classification of wetlands, how to separate wetlands into units for rating, and how to answer all the questions on the field form. The purpose of the class is to provide you with knowledge so that you can fill out the rating form on your own. You will receive a copy of the revised rating system.

It is important that you already have some experience and/or education in delineating wetlands and identifying natural wetland features such as outlets, boundaries of basins, vegetation classes, and some ability to distinguish between different plant species. The morning sessions will be held inside. The afternoon sessions will be conducted in local wetlands, so dress appropriately.

Instructors:  Dr. Amy Yahnke is the senior wetland ecologist for the Shorelands and Environmental Assistance Program at the Washington State Department of Ecology. She holds a Certificate in Wetland Science and Management, BS in Environmental Horticulture, MS in Forest Resources, and PhD in Aquatic and Fishery Sciences. She has studied wetland ecology within the contexts of amphibians, invasive plants, and stormwater management. Dr. Yahnke has experience teaching a wide range of environmental topics to audiences of all ages.

Jacob McCann is the Wetlands/Shorelands/Enforcement Specialist serving Adams, Ferry, Franklin, Garfield, Grant, Lincoln, Pend Oreille, Spokane, and Walla Walla Counties. Though a California native, Jacob is a proud EWU Eagle and has happily called Spokane home for over 20 years. He can be found snowboarding area mountains in the winter and hiking and gardening the rest of the year.

Hallie Ladd is a Wetlands/Shorelines Specialist with the WA State Department of Ecology.  Hallie’s role at Ecology is to provide permitting and technical assistance to the local jurisdictions and citizens of Eastern Washington.  Her professional background includes work in aquatic ecology, fisheries, and natural resource damage assessment and restoration.  Hallie’s education includes a Bachelor’s degree in Biology from Minnesota State University Moorhead and a Master’s degree in Fisheries Science from Texas Tech University.