The hydrologic regime, or the dynamic and dominant presence of water, is the defining circumstance of a wetland. The water level is typically at, just below, or just above the ground's surface, creating the saturated conditions that lead to the development of hydric soils and the presence of hydrophytic plants.

Still, if you look closely, wetland sites will usually show signs of water:

1. Spongy or mushy ground (if you kneel, do your knees get wet?)

2. Mud or dried mud cracks in low spots

3. Water staining on tree trunks or other vegetation

4. Mottled or darkly stained vegetation (from previous flooding)

5. Depressions where water might collect

6. Topographic evidence of water (gullies or stream channels)