Ontario Wetland Evaluation System (OWES)

The MNR maintains a system for evaluating wetlands to determine their significance for land use planning purposes. This system, known as the Ontario Wetland Evaluation System (OWES), is a science-based system that provides a consistent method of assessing wetland functions and their values to society. OWES enables the province to rank wetlands.

MNR District Offices maintain wetland evaluation files for their area. You can contact these offices for information on specific wetlands that been evaluated. Digital information related to wetlands is available through Land Information Ontario.