Robert G. Cowardin

Robert G. Cowardin is an influential ecologist best known for developing the Cowardin Classification System, which categorizes wetland types in the United States. This system helps scientists, conservationists, and policymakers identify and manage wetlands, which are vital for biodiversity, water quality, and flood control. His work has significantly contributed to our understanding of wetland ecosystems and their importance in the environment, influencing wetland protection and restoration efforts across the country. Cowardin's classification framework is widely used in environmental studies and resource management, underscoring the importance of wetlands in ecological health.