Reference Document 3-1
Appendix 3
What is the highest level of economic influence of the species in North Carolina?
(a) This species individually has a high economic influence in NC. (b) This species is part of a group that collectively has a high economic influence in NC. (c) This species (individually or as part of a group) has a moderate economic influence in NC. (d) Unknown. (e) This species (individually or as part of a group) has a low to no economic influence in NC. Metric 18. Cultural Value. While somewhat subjective, wildlife species can have important cultural values that may be difficult to measure, such as those associated with watchable wildlife activities, depiction in art, or cultural significance. Knowledge that a species exists and is viable or that future generations will be able to enjoy a species is a value. Another example would be of the ecosystem services wildlife can provide because they are an integral part of biological communities and ecosystems (e.g., contribution to clean water, provide pest control). They can be culturally significant because of their iconic nature, a value they represent, or their importance to Native American culture. For instance, the Bald Eagle is emblematic of the United States and American freedom as well as an important symbol to most Native American tribes. Other cultural values are evidenced by festivals and special events that highlight the species (Groundhog Day, East Carolina Wildlife Arts Festival, New Year’s Eve Possum Drop). Scores are assigned based on whether there is a cultural value associated with a species. However, a cultural value or significance based solely on the economic value of a species is not the intent of this metric.
What is the cultural value of the species?
(a) Recognized nationally or high cultural values. (b) Recognized statewide or moderate cultural values. (c) May be recognized locally or have low cultural values. (d) None.
Metric 19. Period of Occurrence. Application of management or conservation actions on behalf of a species needs to consider when it occurs in our state. In many cases, land protection measures such as fee-simple acquisition or conservation easement purchases may be the most likely action for conservation of transient species. Other measures on behalf of short-term migrants and species that infrequently occur in North Carolina may be more difficult to execute and ineffective, either because our state is a short stop-over along a migration route or the species’ range does not normally extend into North Carolina.
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2025 NC Wildlife Action Plan
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