Chapter 6 Conservation Goals and Priorities
The NCNHP inventories, documents, and supports the protection of rare and exceptional elements of the state’s natural diversity. Information collected by NCWRC staff on fish, wildlife, their status, and conservation needs is shared with the NCNHP and incorporated into a comprehensive, searchable database. As a member of the NatureServe Network, the NCNHP follows standardized methods developed by The Nature Conservancy and refined through the broader Natural Heritage Network. By compiling data on hundreds of rare species and natural communities, the NCNHP enables the public and decision-makers to assess the ecological value of specific sites and to better understand the potential impacts of land-use decisions. This information plays a critical role in evaluating the trade-offs between conserving biodiversity and pursuing development. Finally, NCNHP data serve as a valuable tool for setting priorities in the protection of North Carolina’s most significant natural areas. The NCNHP database is easily accessible online and can generate reports on rare species, high-quality natural communities, and lands managed for conservation. In addition, written reports—such as lists of rare plants and animals—are available through the NCNHP website https://www.ncnhp.org. 6.5.2.2 NC Museum of Natural Sciences (NCMNS) The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences (NCMNS) is the division of the NCDNCR dedicated to increasing public understanding and appreciation of the environment. Its mission focuses on highlighting the natural diversity of North Carolina and the southeastern United States while connecting the region to the broader global context. To support this mission, NCMNS scientific staff manage the state’s extensive natural sciences research collections, conduct original research, and collaborate with universities, government agencies, and international partners. The museum also engages the public through a wide range of outreach programs and educational initiatives that bring natural history to life. NCWRC staff collaborates closely with research staff at the NCMNS to share data, exchange voucher specimens, and conduct genetic analyses of fish and wildlife species. Zoological collections are maintained for a wide range of species, including terrestrial and aquatic invertebrates, crustaceans, fishes, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals. These extensive research collections, along with their associated data, serve as invaluable resources for the scientific community, supporting academic research and frequently informing policymakers on environmental issues. The NCMNS offers online access to certain collections on its website https://naturalsciences.org/research-collections/collections. 6.5.2.3 NC Division of Parks and Recreation (NCDPR) The North Carolina Division of Parks and Recreation (NCDPR) administers a diverse system of state parks, natural areas, trails, lake, natural and scenic rivers, and recreation areas. The division also supports and assists other recreation providers by administering grant programs for park and trail projects, and by offering technical advice for park and trail planning and development. NCDPR administers the North Carolina Trails System, North Carolina Natural and
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2025 NC Wildlife Action Plan
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