To be considered a wetland, is it true that the area must be covered in shallow water all year?

To define an area as a wetland, it does not have to be covered in shallow water year-round. Wetlands are characterized by the presence of water—either permanently or seasonally—along with specific soil types and vegetation that are adapted to saturated conditions.

Many wetlands are ephemeral or seasonal, meaning they might only hold water during certain times of the year, such as during spring thaw or after significant rainfall. Existing for part of the year can still create the unique habitat and ecological functions of a wetland, even when they are dry at other times. Thus, the fact that a wetland can be dry during certain periods is fundamental to the diverse types of wetland ecosystems.

This understanding emphasizes the dynamic nature of wetlands, highlighting that they can support a diverse range of plant and animal life even if they don't retain water continuously throughout the year.