The Society of Wetland Scientists (SWS), founded in 1980, was begun by a group of researchers and wetland managers who saw the need for a forum for the interchange of ideas and information on wetland ecosystems. The formation of SWS followed a period of interest and activity surrounding environmental concern and it was apparent that wetland science was emerging as a distinct discipline.

The Society of Wetland Scientists now has nearly 5000 members in 61 countries world-wide. Unlike many scientific organizations, society members are drawn equally from government, conservation organizations, private consulting practice, and academic institutions. SWS also commits a percentage of its membership to scientists in developing and transition nations on a gratis basis. Activities center in 13 regional chapters and the newest chapter is the SWS-Australia Chapter formed in 2000. Regional chapters on other continents and regions are being planned. The Society supports a number of programs aimed at furthering communication and education in wetland science. WETLANDS is the peer-reviewed scientific journal of SWS. WETLANDS will be offered on the Web to libraries through BioOne www.bioone.org starting in 2001. SWS offers grants to support Ramsar sites each year. A Student Grant Program offers funding for student research as a way to assist young people in their wetland education. The Society holds an annual conference each year, and also supports wetland conferences elsewhere. The Society provided sponsorship for this symposium.

SWS supports a website www.sws.org that offers information on wetland training, conferences, jobs, educational programs, an information forum, and news of the regional chapters and the annual conference. The website also features a free forum to assist scientists in locating tools of wetland practice.

SWS has developed partnerships with other societies to foster communication and also increase the message for sound science. SWS is a member of the Council of Aquatic Societies and the American Institute for Biological Sciences. SWS has signed Memoranda of Agreement with Ramsar, the Association of State Wetland Managers, and the American Water Resources Association, and SWS seeks partnerships with other groups.

The Society of Wetland Scientists is a non-profit, charitable, and educational organization to foster conservation and understanding of wetlands. Its objectives include advancement of public education and enlightenment concerning the world's wetland resources and providing an independent forum for interchange of ideas and data developed within wetland science. SWS seeks to develop and encourage wetland science as a distinct discipline and seeks to encourage and evaluate the educational, scientific, and technological development and advancement of all branches of wetland science and practice. SWS also seeks to encourage the knowledgeable management of wetland resources.

The Society of Wetland Scientists welcomes new members from all areas of wetland interest. Information on membership can be found on the website http://www.sws.org.