Development of decision-support tools for assessment of wetland present ecological status (PES) Volume 1. Review of available methods for the assessment of the ecological condition of wetlands in South Africa.

The stated overall objective of this project was “To conduct gap analysis in wetland integrity assessment methods used in South Africa and develop a consolidated approach supported by a decision-support system applicable in all types of wetlands”. The specific aims of the project were stated as follows in the directed call for proposals: (1) to compare and contrast the available mainstream wetland health assessment tools with a particular focus on identifying potential duplication and/or overlaps; (2) to identify the limitations and report on gaps of existing wetland health assessment tools or methods available in the country; (3) to recommend further research on wetland health assessment methods; (4) to develop a Decision-support Tree (DST) to guide users in the application of these tools for use in various types of wetlands and assessments; (5) to test the application and scientific viability of the DST on selected case study sites; and (6) to train the core group of users and students from appropriate disciplines on the application of the DST.” The aims of the project that have been addressed in the current review document (Final Report: Volume 1) are the first three listed above. The other aims are addressed in Final Report: Volume 2.