Course Registration
VOL - Dakota County Wetland Health Evaluation Program (WHEP)
Dakota County Wetland Health Evaluation Program (WHEP) website
860 Cliff RoadEagan, MN 55123
General Description
Since 1997, WHEP volunteers have been monitoring wetland health throughout Dakota and Hennepin counties. They provide important information to city and county planners, engineers, resource managers, and other professionals. The valuable data collected during the season is shared with local decision-makers and the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency to help give a better picture of local water quality and wetland biodiversity and health throughout the Twin Cities metropolitan area.
WHEP volunteers annually monitor and evaluate wetland health based on species diversity and population of macroinvertebrates (dragonflies, snails, etc) and plants. Volunteers use wetland assessment protocols and tools to provide valuable wetland data to their local decision-makers. Volunteers work in city-based teams and are guided by team leaders. Volunteers come from a wide variety of backgrounds but all share a common interest in understanding and protecting wetlands. All training and equipment is provided by Dakota County.
Location/Date/Time
Registration will begin early in the spring. Each person will join a team designated by city of choice. The event schedule is determined by the team leader from each city and varies with each team. The program runs May through August (various dates and times determined by team and city). Schedules are available in May.
Duties & Responsibilities
Participate in group outings as assigned by the group
Help collect samples
Participate in lab work
Attend the assigned trainings
Minimum Qualifications
Able to stand for periods of time in uneven terrain
Enjoys working in groups outdoors
Doesn’t mind working in a wet environment
Some weekend hours required
If under 16, must be accompanied by an adult (18 or older)
Minimum Time Commitment
20 - 40 hours during the summer season, hours vary by volunteer
Activity Level
Active - Involves physical exertion for an extended period of time; can involve rough, uneven or steep terrain. Not recommended for volunteers with physical limitations.
Recommended Training
No current experience is required. All trainings are provided for by the county.
Additional Information
For additional information about this program, check out this intro video or visit the MN WHEP website.
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Contact Information
Garrett Zaffke | Community Relations and Volunteer Services Coordinator
Dakota County Communications
1590 Highway 55| Hastings, MN 55033
Direct: (651) 438-4635 | Fax: (651) 438-4405 Email: garrett.zaffke@co.dakota.mn.us
Course Dates:
Meeting from 8:00 A.M. to 11:00 P.M. on:
Instructor Information
Sponsor Information
Dakota County
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