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The wetland groups developed by Bedford and Zimmerman 1974 are particularly helpful in decision-making and promoting better project planning and design.

Group I Wetlands
Wetlands in this group are the best in the county and, in some cases, among the most valuable in southern Wisconsin. A few function substantially as they did at the time of early settlement, so far as can be told. Although showing signs of disturbance, they remain virtually intact. Because of the scarcity of wetlands which approximate original ecosystems in their functioning, these wetlands have been included in Group I. Every effort should be made to protect them.

Group II Wetlands
This group contains the rest of the large peat deposits (those not in Group I) which are particularly valuable for protecting the Yahara River and chain of lakes. Most of the wetlands in this group fall into the so-called “undrainable” category and, therefore, are large or deep enough to have resilience. Alterations which have been made have not had a profound effect. These wetlands should get the same protection as those in Group I. It is important to point out that the wetlands in this group can benefit from carefully planned enhancement to their original function and value.

Group III Wetlands
While the wetlands in this group do not currently have outstanding values, they serve as support systems for those which do. Furthermore, they enhance the environment as a whole. Although substantially altered, these wetlands support wildlife and provide open space. While all reasonable efforts should be made to ensure their protection, enhancement may be an especially important consideration; improving one or more degraded functions such as flood protection, water quality, or wildlife habitat. When planning enhancement projects, one must be sure to consider possible effects on other functions beyond the targeted function.

Group IV Wetlands
Although severely degraded, they still function as a wetland in some way or for temporary periods of time. Some of them have value for watershed protection, wildlife use, or open space. Their best use appears to be enhancement or restoration for one or more of these purposes, rather than continued attempts at drainage. Further degradation of these wetlands should be discouraged.

Relatively few wetlands are listed as being in Group IV as compared to the actual number that exist in Dane County. Many wetlands which would have been placed in Group IV could not be visited during the 1974 study because of project limitations. Wetlands that could not be visited are included in the areas labeled as being “Not Inventoried.” More investigation is needed to evaluate and group these wetlands. Ephemeral or temporary ponds have also not been listed, even though they may provide critical life cycle habitat for some species, especially amphibians.

Group V Potentially Restorable Wetlands
These areas no longer exist or function as wetlands. Drainage, filling, dredging, or a combination thereof, have converted these areas to non-wetland. In many cases, however, these alterations can be reversed through restoration efforts. In watersheds that have been adversely affected by drainage, flooding, and deteriorated water quality, restoration projects should be considered. Potential restoration sites should also be considered for improving or expanding existing wetlands.

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Bedford, R.L., E.H. Zimmerman, and J.H. Zimmerman. 1974. The Wetlands of Dane County, Wisconsin for the Dane County Regional Planning Commission. Madison, WI.