National Wetlands Inventory

The National Wetlands Inventory (NWI), a program of the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, serves as a primary source for geospatial data and information concerning wetlands across the United States. This initiative systematically collects, produces, and disseminates data on the characteristics, extent, and status of U.S. wetlands and deepwater habitats. The NWI data are crucial for environmental planning, conservation efforts, and scientific research, offering foundational knowledge for understanding wetland ecosystems.

The website provides access to various wetland data products, including digital geospatial datasets, wetland maps, and associated reports. Users can typically download these datasets, which are often classified according to the Cowardin system, for use in Geographic Information Systems (GIS). This data supports a wide range of applications, from local land-use decisions to national policy formulation, ensuring informed management of these vital natural resources.

The program's commitment to open data ensures that this valuable information is accessible to government agencies, researchers, conservation organizations, and the public. The NWI continually updates its data to reflect changes in wetland conditions, contributing significantly to the long-term monitoring and protection of wetland habitats, which are essential for biodiversity, water quality, and flood control.