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Mid-Atlantic Tidal Wetland Rapid Assessment Method (MidTRAM) v4.1Search fields
Description and method logicMethod purposeThe MidTRAM is designed for assessing the condition of estuarine tidal wetlands at the watershed level using probabilistic survey.
SummaryThe Mid-Atlantic Tidal Wetland Rapid Assessment Method (MidTRAM) is a technique designed for assessing the condition of estuarine tidal wetlands based on 3 major attributes (a) buffer, b) hydrology and c) habitat (plant community)). The MidTRAM is based on the metrics developed for the California Rapid Assessment Methodology and for the New England Rapid Assessment Method. This version is an update to version 3.0 (2010).
Method logicPreparation for MidTRAM field assessment requires the preparation of field maps, landowner liaison, and the classification of wetlands for assessment using a wetland key.
The location of assessment areas within a tidal wetland is either a) determined randomly by using a probabilistic sampling method or b) determined subjectively using predetermined selection criteria. Subplots are defined depending on the dimensions of the assessment area. MidTRAM separates three major wetland attributes, a) buffer, b) hydrology and c) habitat (plant community). These attributes are comprised of several metrics each which are scored between 3 and 12. The final attribute score is expressed as a percentage. Final MidTRAM condition scores range from 0-100. Criteria groupings of the methodMidTRAM assessment criteria are designed for rapid appraisal and are based on the following:
a) buffer, b) hydrology and c) habitat (plant community). Data required
Resources requiredExpertise requiredMidTRAM should be completed by practitioners who have completed a training course on how to properly perform the method. Experience and/or education in wetland classification and assessment, and native flora and soil properties is desired. Users of this method should have experience in the identification of tidal wetlands, an understanding of the various stressors that impact different wetland types, native flora of the region, and soil properties.
Materials requiredAccess to supporting maps and information and land access. General survey equipment is required, as well as provisions for measuring vegetation, soil and hydrology attributes.
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Physical and chemicalManagement and planningFloraReviewRecommended userPractitioners of MidTRAM should have completed a training course on how to properly use the method. They should ideally have experience or qualifications in the field of tidal wetland management, and be able to identify stressors, native flora and soil properties of the region where assessment is carried out.
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Last updated: 7 February 2019 This page should be cited as: Department of Environment, Science and Innovation, Queensland (2019) Mid-Atlantic Tidal Wetland Rapid Assessment Method (MidTRAM) v4.1, WetlandInfo website, accessed 30 August 2024. Available at: https://wetlandinfo.des.qld.gov.au/wetlands/resources/tools/assessment-search-tool/mid-atlantic-tidal-wetland-rapid-assessment-method-midtram-v4-1/ |