Wetlands and other water-dependent ecosystems are widely recognized as being of vital importance to maintaining biodiversity, and many are now protected by legislation. However, impacts on wetlands are notoriously difficult to assess because they are often complex, poorly understood hydroecological systems. Some wetlands have exacting water level and quality requirements.

Assessment of anthropogenic impacts on wetlands requires a multidisciplinary approach, involving knowledge of groundwater, surface water, and hydroecology. SACAL can provide the broad range of expertise required and has built up a strong track record in work on wetlands and hydroecology.