CWD Water Quality & Management 2

Question 1

Which parameter is most commonly used to assess the oxygen demand exerted by organic matter decomposition in wetland waters?

Accepted Answer

Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD)

Answer

BOD measures the oxygen consumed by microorganisms decomposing organic matter and is a key indicator of organic pollution in wetland systems.

Question 2

A wetland exhibits a pH of 4.2. Which water source is most likely contributing to this condition?

Accepted Answer

Sphagnum moss decomposition and organic acids

Answer

Sphagnum moss produces organic acids (particularly sphagnic acid) that acidify bog and fen waters, commonly driving pH below 4.5.

Question 3

Under the Clean Water Act Section 404, which agency issues permits for discharge of dredged or fill material into wetlands?

Accepted Answer

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

Answer

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers administers Section 404 permits for discharges of dredged or fill material into waters of the U.S., including wetlands.

Question 4

Which wetland type is most effective at removing nitrogen through denitrification?

Accepted Answer

Freshwater emergent marshes with alternating aerobic/anaerobic zones

Answer

Freshwater emergent marshes with fluctuating water tables create aerobic-anaerobic interfaces that support both nitrification and denitrification, maximizing nitrogen removal.

Question 5

Hydrologic connectivity between a wetland and an adjacent stream primarily affects water quality by:

Accepted Answer

Transporting dissolved nutrients, sediments, and contaminants between systems

Answer

Hydrologic connectivity facilitates bidirectional transport of nutrients, sediments, and contaminants, making it a critical pathway for water quality exchange between wetlands and streams.

(CWD) Certified Wetland Delineator Practice Test

(CWD) Certified Wetland Delineator Practice Test

CWD Water Quality & Management 2