Wetlands mapping
Wis. Stat. § 23.32
in effect(1) In this section “wetland” means an area where water is at, near, or above the land surface long enough to be capable of supporting aquatic or hydrophytic vegetation and which has soils indicative of wet conditions.
(2)
(a) For the purpose of advancing the conservation of wetland resources the department shall prepare or cause to be prepared maps that, at a minimum, identify as accurately as is practicable the individual wetlands in the state which have an area of 5 acres or more.
(b) Mapping priorities, technical methods and standards to be used in delineating wetlands and a long-term schedule which will result in completion of the mapping effort at the earliest possible date shall be developed by the department in cooperation with those other state agencies having mapping, aerial photography and comprehensive planning responsibilities.
(c) Wetland maps shall be prepared utilizing the best methods practicable with the funds available for that purpose and shall be based upon data such as soil surveys, aerial photographs and existing wetland surveys and may be supplemented by on-site surveys and other studies.
(d) The department shall cooperate with the department of administration under s. 16.967 in conducting wetland mapping activities or any related land information collection activities.
(3)
(a) The department may sell, and may enter into contracts to sell, wetland maps. The fees for the maps shall be as follows:
1. For each paper map, $5.
2. For each aerial photograph, $10.
3. For each copy of a digital wetland database covering one township, $15.
(b) The department, by rule, may increase any fee specified in par. (a). Any increased fee must at least equal the amount necessary to cover the costs of preparing, producing and selling the wetland maps.
Source: WI Statutes (Official Site)URL: https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/document/statutes/23.32Fetched: 10/7/2026