This data set represents the extent, approximate location and type of
wetlands and deepwater habitats in Hawaii, United States. These data delineate
the areal extent of wetlands and surface waters as defined by Cowardin et al.
(1979).
Certain wetland habitats are excluded from the National mapping program
because of the limitations of aerial imagery as the primary data source used to
detect wetlands. These habitats include seagrasses or submerged aquatic
vegetation that are found in the intertidal and subtidal zones of estuaries and
near shore coastal waters. Some deepwater reef communities (coral or tuberficid
worm reefs) have also been excluded from the inventory. These habitats, because
of their depth, go undetected by aerial imagery.
By policy, the Service also excludes certain types of "farmed wetlands"
as may be defined by the Food Security Act or that do not coincide with the
Cowardin et al. definition. Contact the Service's Regional Wetland Coordinator
for additional information on what types of farmed wetlands are included on
wetland maps.
