1 Table of contents 1633

2025 NC Wildlife Action Plan

Cover 2025 NC State Wildlife Action Plan		1
FOREWORD:		3
Resolution endorsing the 2025 SWAP revision		3
Table of Contents		5
Chapters		5
List of Figures		39
List of Figures by Chapter		47
List of Tables		42
List of Appendices		44
Chapter 1. Introduction		49
1.1 The Origin of State Wildlife Action Plans (SWAPs)		49
1.2 State Wildlife Grants Eligibility and Requirements		49
1.3 From 2015 to 2025—Revision of North Carolina’s Wildlife Action Plan		49
1.3.1 Revision Approach and Methods		51
1.3.2 Report Organization and Format		51
1.4 Potential SWG Program Changes		53
Chapter 2. The Need for Conservation		55
2.1 Introduction		55
2.2 Human Population Changes		55
2.3 Natural Resources Changes		57
2.3.1 Land Use and Land Cover Changes		57
2.3.2 Protecting Land		59
2.3.3 Protecting Endangered Ecosystems		59
2.3.4 Critical Areas for Freshwater Conservation		61
2.4 Uncertainty and Future Conditions		63
2.5 Conclusion		63
Chapter 3. North Carolina Species		67
3.1 Introduction		67
3.1.1 Regulatory Authority for Plants and Wildlife		68
3.1.1.1 Wildlife		69
3.1.1.2 Plants		69
3.1.2 Definitions		71
3.1.3 Permit Requirements		72
3.1.4 Species of Greatest Conservation Need (SGCN)		73
3.1.4.1 Cherokee Species of Concern		73
3.1.4.2 Regional Species of Greatest Conservation Need (RSGCN)		75
3.1.5 Taxa Team SGCN Evaluation Process		76
3.1.6 Knowledge Gaps and Research Needs		77
3.1.7 Management Needs		78
3.1.8 Species and Habitat Associations		79
3.1.9 Population Objectives		80
3.1.10 Statewide Priority Recommendations for All Species		81
3.1.10.1 Surveys		81
3.1.10.2 Monitoring		81
3.1.10.3 Research		81
3.1.10.4 Management Practices		83
3.1.10.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		83
3.2 Amphibians		84
3.2.1 Introduction		84
3.2.1.1 Salamanders		85
3.2.1.2 Frogs and Toads		85
3.2.2 Comparison of 2015 and 2025 Priority Species		87
3.2.3 Conservation Concerns		88
3.2.4 Knowledge Gaps		89
3.2.5 Management Needs		90
3.2.6 Threats and Problems		91
3.2.7 Additional Information		92
3.2.8 Recommendations		93
3.2.8.1 Surveys		93
3.2.8.2 Monitoring		93
3.2.8.3 Research		95
3.2.8.4 Management Practices		95
3.2.8.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		97
3.3 Birds		99
3.3.1 Introduction		99
3.3.2 Comparison of 2015 and 2025 Priority Species		99
3.3.3 Conservation Concerns		100
3.3.3.1 Shorebirds		100
3.3.3.2 Colonial Waterbirds		101
3.3.3.3 Marsh Birds		102
3.3.3.4 Songbirds		103
3.3.3.5 Other Land Birds		106
3.3.3.6 Birds of Prey		106
3.3.4 Knowledge Gaps		107
3.3.5 Management Needs		109
3.3.6 Threats and Problems		111
3.3.7 Additional Information		114
3.3.7.1 North Carolina		113
3.3.7.2 National		113
3.3.7.3 International		115
3.3.8 Recommendations		117
3.3.8.1 Surveys		117
3.3.8.2 Monitoring		121
3.3.8.3 Research		123
3.3.8.4 Management Practices		129
3.3.8.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		131
3.4 Crayfishes		134
3.4.1 Introduction		133
3.4.2 Comparison of 2015 and 2025 Priority Species		135
3.4.3 Conservation Concerns		135
3.4.4 Knowledge Gaps		137
3.4.5 Management Needs		137
3.4.6 Threats and Problems		139
3.4.7 Additional Information		141
3.4.8 Recommendations		141
3.4.8.1 Surveys		141
3.4.8.2 Monitoring		141
3.4.8.3 Research		141
3.4.8.4 Management Practices		143
3.4.8.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		143
3.5 Freshwater Fishes		145
3.5.1 Introduction		145
3.5.2 Comparison of 2015 and 2025 Priority Species		145
3.5.3 Conservation Concerns		147
3.5.4 Knowledge Gaps		149
3.5.5 Management Needs		149
3.5.6 Threats and Problems		151
3.5.7 Additional Information		151
3.5.8 Recommendations		151
3.5.8.1 Surveys		153
3.5.8.2 Monitoring		153
3.5.8.3 Research		153
3.5.8.4 Management Practices		153
3.5.8.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		155
3.6 Freshwater Mussels		157
3.6.1 Introduction		157
3.6.2 Comparison of 2015 and 2025 Priority Species		157
3.6.3 Conservation Concerns		157
3.6.4 Knowledge Gaps		159
3.6.5 Management Needs		159
3.6.6 Threats and Problems		161
3.6.7 Additional Information		163
3.6.8 Recommendations		163
3.6.8.1 Surveys		165
3.6.8.2 Monitoring		165
3.6.8.3 Research		165
3.6.8.4 Management Practices		167
3.6.8.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		167
3.7 Mammals		170
3.7.1 Introduction		169
3.7.2 Comparison of 2015 and 2025 Priority Species		169
3.7.3 Conservation Concerns		171
3.7.4 Knowledge Gaps		171
3.7.5 Management Needs		171
3.7.6 Threats and Problems		171
3.7.7 Additional Information		173
3.7.8 Recommendations		173
3.7.8.1 Surveys		175
3.7.8.2 Monitoring		175
3.7.8.3 Research		177
3.7.8.4 Management Practices		177
3.7.8.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		177
3.8 Reptiles		180
3.8.1 Introduction		179
3.8.1.1 Crocodiles		181
3.8.1.2 Lizards		181
3.8.1.3 Snakes		181
3.8.1.4 Turtles		181
3.8.2 Comparison of 2005 and 2015 Priority Species		183
3.8.3 Conservation Concerns		185
3.8.4 Knowledge Gaps		187
3.8.5 Management Needs		187
3.8.6 Threats and Problems		189
3.8.7 Additional Information		189
3.8.8 Recommendations		191
3.8.8.1 Surveys		191
3.8.8.2 Monitoring		193
3.8.8.3 Research		193
3.8.8.4 Management Practices		195
3.8.8.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		195
3.9 Snails		198
3.9.1 Introduction		197
3.9.1.1 Freshwater Snails		197
3.9.1.2 Land Snails		199
3.9.2 Comparison of 2005 and 2015 Priority Species		199
3.9.3 Conservation Concerns		201
3.9.4 Knowledge Gaps		201
3.9.5 Management Needs		203
3.9.6 Threats and Problems		203
3.9.7 Additional Information		205
3.9.8 Recommendations		205
3.9.8.1 Surveys		205
3.9.8.2 Monitoring		207
3.9.8.3 Research		207
3.9.8.4 Management Practices		209
3.9.8.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		209
3.10 Insects		211
3.10.1 Introduction		211
3.10.1.1 Aquatic Insects		213
3.10.1.2 Terrestrial Insects		213
3.10.2 Conservation Concerns		213
3.10.3 Knowledge Gaps		215
3.10.4 Management Needs		215
3.10.5 Threats and Problems		217
3.10.6 Additional Information		219
3.10.7 Recommendations		219
3.10.7.1 Surveys		219
3.10.7.2 Monitoring		219
3.10.7.3 Research		219
3.10.7.4 Management Practices		221
3.10.7.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		221
3.11 Pelagic Seabirds		224
3.11.1 Introduction		223
3.11.2 Conservation Concerns		225
3.11.3 Knowledge Gaps		225
3.11.4 Management Concerns		227
3.11.5 Threats and Problems		227
3.11.6 Additional Information		229
3.11.7 Recommendations		229
3.11.7.1 Surveys		229
3.11.7.2 Monitoring		229
3.11.7.3 Research		231
3.11.7.4 Management Practices		231
3.11.7.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		233
3.12 Marine Species		234
3.12.1 Introduction		233
3.12.2 Regulations		233
3.12.2.1 Federal Regulations		233
3.12.2.2 State Regulations		235
3.12.3 Conservation Concerns		235
3.12.4 Knowledge Gaps		237
3.12.5 Management Needs		237
3.12.6 Threats and Problems		237
3.12.6.1 Nesting Threats (Terrestrial Habitats)		237
3.12.6.2 Marine Threats (Essential Fish Habitats)		239
3.12.7 Additional Information		241
3.12.8 Recommendations		241
3.12.8.1 Surveys		243
3.12.8.2 Monitoring		243
3.12.8.3 Research		243
3.12.8.4 Management Practices		245
3.12.8.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		245
3.13 Plants		247
3.13.1 Introduction		247
3.13.1.1 Federal Regulations		247
3.13.1.2 State Regulations		249
3.13.2 Evaluation and Identification of Plant SGCN		249
3.13.3 Conservation Concerns		249
3.13.4 Knowledge Gaps		249
3.13.5 Management Needs		251
3.13.6 Threats and Problems		251
3.13.7 Additional Information		253
3.13.8 Recommendations		253
3.13.8.1 Surveys		255
3.13.8.2 Monitoring		255
3.13.8.3 Research		255
3.13.8.4 Management Practices		255
3.13.8.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		255
Chapter 4. Habitats		259
4.1 Introduction		259
4.1.1 Natural Community Descriptions		261
4.1.2 Natural Community Priorities		263
4.1.3 Species and Habitat Associations		263
4.2 Aquatic Communities		265
4.2.1 Problems Affecting Aquatic Communities		267
4.2.2 Statewide Aquatic Community Recommendations		273
4.2.2.1 Surveys		273
4.2.2.2 Monitoring		273
4.2.2.3 Research		275
4.2.2.4 Management Practices		275
4.2.2.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		277
4.2.3 Coldwater Systems		279
4.2.3.1 Ecosystem Description		279
4.2.3.2 Location of Habitat		281
4.2.3.3 Problems Affecting Habitats		281
4.2.3.4 Climate Change Compared to Other Threats		283
4.2.3.5 Impacts to Wildlife		283
4.2.3.6 Recommendations		285
4.2.3.6.1 Surveys		285
4.2.3.6.2 Monitoring		285
4.2.3.6.3 Research		285
4.2.3.6.4 Management Practices		287
4.2.3.6.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		287
4.2.4 Coolwater Aquatic Communities		289
4.2.4.1 Ecosystem Description		289
4.2.4.2 Location of Habitat		289
4.2.4.3 Problems Affecting Habitats		289
4.2.4.4 Climate Change Compared to Other Threats		291
4.2.4.5 Impacts to Wildlife		291
4.2.4.6 Recommendations		293
4.2.4.6.1 Surveys		293
4.2.4.6.2 Monitoring		293
4.2.4.6.3 Research		293
4.2.4.6.4 Management Practices		293
4.2.4.6.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		295
4.2.5 Warmwater Aquatic Communities		295
4.2.5.1 Ecosystem Description		295
4.2.5.2 Location of Habitat		295
4.2.5.3 Problems Affecting Habitats		295
4.2.5.4 Climate Change Compared to Other Threats		297
4.2.5.5 Impacts to Wildlife		297
4.2.5.6 Recommendations		297
4.2.5.6.1 Surveys		299
4.2.5.6.2 Monitoring		299
4.2.5.6.3 Research		299
4.2.5.6.4 Management Practices		299
4.2.5.6.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		299
4.2.6 Groundwater, Springs, and Subterranean Water Systems		301
4.2.6.1 Ecosystem Description		301
4.2.6.2 Location of Habitat		301
4.2.6.3 Problems Affecting Habitats		301
4.2.6.4 Climate Change Compared to Other Threats		303
4.2.6.5 Impacts to Wildlife		303
4.2.6.6 Recommendations		303
4.2.6.6.1 Surveys		303
4.2.6.6.2 Monitoring		305
4.2.6.6.3 Research		305
4.2.6.6.4 Management Practices		305
4.2.6.6.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		305
4.2.7 Headwater Streams/Small Creeks		305
4.2.7.1 Ecosystem Description		305
4.2.7.2 Location of Habitat		305
4.2.7.3 Problems Affecting Habitats		307
4.2.7.4 Climate Change Compared to Other Threats		309
4.2.7.5 Impacts to Wildlife		311
4.2.7.6 Recommendations		311
4.2.7.6.1 Surveys		311
4.2.7.6.2 Monitoring		313
4.2.7.6.3 Research		313
4.2.7.6.4 Management Practices		313
4.2.7.6.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		313
4.2.8 Large Creeks/Small Rivers		315
4.2.8.1 Ecosystem Description		315
4.2.8.2 Location of Habitat		315
4.2.8.3 Problems Affecting Habitats		315
4.2.8.4 Climate Change Compared to Other Threats		317
4.2.8.5 Impacts to Wildlife		319
4.2.8.6 Recommendations		319
4.2.8.6.1 Surveys		319
4.2.8.6.2 Monitoring		321
4.2.8.6.3 Research		321
4.2.8.6.4 Management Practices		321
4.2.8.6.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		323
4.2.9 Medium River Communities		323
4.2.9.1 Ecosystem Description		323
4.2.9.2 Location of Habitat		323
4.2.9.3 Problems Affecting Habitats		323
4.2.9.4 Climate Change Compared to Other Threats		327
4.2.9.5 Impacts to Wildlife		329
4.2.9.6 Recommendations		329
4.2.9.6.1 Surveys		329
4.2.9.6.2 Monitoring		329
4.2.9.6.3 Research		331
4.2.9.6.4 Management Practices		331
4.2.9.6.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		331
4.2.10 Large River Communities		331
4.2.10.1 Ecosystem Description		331
4.2.10.2 Location of Habitat		331
4.2.10.3 Problems Affecting Habitats		331
4.2.10.4 Climate Change Compared to Other Threats		335
4.2.10.5 Impacts to Wildlife		335
4.2.10.6 Recommendations		337
4.2.10.6.1 Surveys		337
4.2.10.6.2 Monitoring		337
4.2.10.6.3 Research		339
4.2.10.6.4 Management Practices		339
4.2.10.6.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		339
4.2.11 Stream Swamp Systems		341
4.2.11.1 Ecosystem Description		341
4.2.11.2 Location of Habitat		341
4.2.11.3 Problems Affecting Habitats		341
4.2.11.4 Climate Change Compared to Other Threats		345
4.2.11.5 Impacts to Wildlife		345
4.2.11.6 Recommendations		347
4.2.11.6.1 Surveys		347
4.2.11.6.2 Monitoring		349
4.2.11.6.3 Research		349
4.2.11.6.4 Management Practices		349
4.2.11.6.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		351
4.2.12 Natural Lakes		351
4.2.12.1 Ecosystem Description		351
4.2.12.2 Location of Habitat		351
4.2.12.3 Problems Affecting Habitats		351
4.2.12.4 Climate Change Compared to Other Threats		353
4.2.12.5 Impacts to Wildlife		355
4.2.12.6 Recommendations		355
4.2.12.6.1 Surveys		355
4.2.12.6.2 Monitoring		355
4.2.12.6.3 Research		357
4.2.12.6.4 Management Practices		357
4.2.12.6.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		357
4.2.13 Reservoirs & Impoundments		359
4.2.13.1 Ecosystem Description		359
4.2.13.2 Location of Habitat		359
4.2.13.3 Problems Affecting Habitats		359
4.2.13.4 Climate Change Compared to Other Threats		361
4.2.13.5 Impacts to Wildlife		361
4.2.13.6 Recommendations		363
4.2.13.6.1 Surveys		363
4.2.13.6.2 Monitoring		363
4.2.13.6.3 Research		365
4.2.13.6.4 Management		365
4.2.13.6.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		365
4.2.14 Estuarine Aquatic Communities		367
4.2.14.1 Ecosystem Description		367
4.2.14.2 Location of Habitat		367
4.2.14.3 Problems Affecting Habitats		369
4.2.14.4 Climate Change Compared to Other Threats		371
4.2.14.5 Impacts to Wildlife		373
4.2.14.6 Recommendations		373
4.2.14.6.1 Surveys		373
4.2.14.6.2 Monitoring		375
4.2.14.6.3 Research		375
4.2.14.6.4 Management Practices		377
4.2.14.6.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		377
4.3 Wetland Natural Communities		379
4.3.1 Introduction		379
4.3.2 Bogs and Fens		381
4.3.2.1 Ecosystem Description		381
4.3.2.2 Location of Habitat		381
4.3.2.3 Problems Affecting Habitats		381
4.3.2.4 Climate Change Compared to Other Threats		383
4.3.2.5 Impacts to Wildlife		383
4.3.2.6 Recommendations		385
4.3.2.6.1 Surveys		385
4.3.2.6.2 Monitoring		385
4.3.2.6.3 Research		385
4.3.2.6.4 Management Practices		387
4.3.2.6.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		388
4.3.3 Estuarine Wetland Communities		389
4.3.3.1 Ecosystem Description		389
4.3.3.2 Location of Habitat		391
4.3.3.3 Problems Affecting Habitats		391
4.3.3.4 Climate Change Compared to Other Threats		391
4.3.3.5 Impacts to Wildlife		393
4.3.3.6 Recommendations		395
4.3.3.6.1 Surveys		395
4.3.3.6.2 Monitoring		395
4.3.3.6.3 Research		395
4.3.3.6.4 Management Practices		397
4.3.3.6.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		397
4.3.4 Floodplains - Blackwater Systems		399
4.3.4.1 Ecosystem Description		399
4.3.4.2 Location of Habitat		399
4.3.4.3 Problems Affecting Habitats		399
4.3.4.4 Climate Change Compared to Other Threats		401
4.3.4.5 Impacts to Wildlife		403
4.3.4.6 Recommendations		403
4.3.4.6.1 Surveys		403
4.3.4.6.2 Monitoring		405
4.3.4.6.3 Research		405
4.3.4.6.4 Management Practices		407
4.3.4.6.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		407
4.3.5 Floodplains – Brownwater Systems		409
4.3.5.1 Ecosystem Description		409
4.3.5.2 Location of Habitat		409
4.3.5.3 Problems Affecting Habitats		409
4.3.5.4 Climate Change Compared to Other Threats		411
4.3.5.5 Impacts to Wildlife		411
4.3.5.6 Recommendations		411
4.3.5.6.1 Surveys		413
4.3.5.6.2 Monitoring		413
4.3.5.6.3 Research		413
4.3.5.6.4 Management Practices		413
4.3.5.6.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		415
4.3.6 Floodplains – Inland Systems		415
4.3.6.1 Ecosystem Description		415
4.3.6.2 Location of Habitat		415
4.3.6.3 Problems Affecting Habitats		415
4.3.6.4 Climate Change Compared to Other Threats		417
4.3.6.5 Impacts to Wildlife		419
4.3.6.6 Recommendations		419
4.3.6.6.1 Surveys		419
4.3.6.6.2 Monitoring		421
4.3.6.6.3 Research		421
4.3.6.6.4 Management Practices		423
4.3.6.6.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		423
4.3.7 Freshwater Tidal Wetlands		425
4.3.7.1 Ecosystem Description		425
4.3.7.2 Location of Habitat		425
4.3.7.3 Problems Affecting Habitats		425
4.3.7.4 Climate Change Compared to Other Threats		427
4.3.7.5 Impacts to Wildlife		427
4.3.7.6 Recommendations		429
4.3.7.6.1 Surveys		429
4.3.7.6.2 Monitoring		429
4.3.7.6.3 Research		431
4.3.7.6.4 Management Practices		431
4.3.7.6.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		431
4.3.8 Freshwater Herbaceous Marsh		433
4.3.8.1 Ecosystem Description		433
4.3.8.2 Location of Habitat		433
4.3.8.3 Problems Affecting Habitats		433
4.3.8.4 Climate Change Compared to Other Threats		435
4.3.8.5 Impacts to Wildlife		435
4.3.8.6 Recommendations		435
4.3.8.6.1 Surveys		435
4.3.8.6.2 Monitoring		435
4.3.8.6.3 Research		437
4.3.8.6.4 Management Practices		437
4.3.8.6.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		437
4.3.9 Nonalluvial Mineral Wetlands		439
4.3.9.1 Ecosystem Description		439
4.3.9.2 Location of Habitat		441
4.3.9.3 Problems Affecting Habitats		441
4.3.9.4 Climate Change Compared to Other Threats		441
4.3.9.5 Impacts to Wildlife		441
4.3.9.6 Recommendations		443
4.3.9.6.1 Surveys		443
4.3.9.6.2 Monitoring		445
4.3.9.6.3 Research		445
4.3.9.6.4 Management Practices		445
4.3.9.6.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		447
4.3.10 Pocosins		447
4.3.10.1 Ecosystem Description		447
4.3.10.2 Location of Habitat		449
4.3.10.3 Problems Affecting Habitats		449
4.3.10.4 Climate Change Compared to Other Threats		449
4.3.10.5 Impacts to Wildlife		451
4.3.10.6 Recommendations		451
4.3.10.6.1 Surveys		453
4.3.10.6.2 Monitoring		453
4.3.10.6.3 Research		453
4.3.10.6.4 Management Practices		453
4.3.10.6.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		455
4.3.11 Upland Pools and Depressions		455
4.3.11.1 Ecosystem Description		455
4.3.11.2 Location of Habitat		455
4.3.11.3 Problems Affecting Habitats		457
4.3.11.4 Climate Change Compared to Other Threats		457
4.3.11.5 Impacts to Wildlife		459
4.3.11.6 Recommendations		459
4.3.11.6.1 Surveys		459
4.3.11.6.2 Monitoring		461
4.3.11.6.3 Research		461
4.3.11.6.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		463
4.3.12 Upland Seepages and Spray Cliffs		465
4.3.12.1 Ecosystem Description		465
4.3.12.2 Location of Habitat		465
4.3.12.3 Problems Affecting Habitats		465
4.3.12.4 Climate Change Compared to Other Threats		465
4.3.12.5 Impacts to Wildlife		467
4.3.12.6 Recommendations		467
4.3.12.6.1 Surveys		467
4.3.12.6.2 Monitoring		467
4.3.12.6.3 Research		469
4.3.12.6.4 Management Practices		469
4.3.12.6.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		469
4.3.13 Wet Pine Savannas		471
4.3.13.1 Ecosystem Description		471
4.3.13.2 Location of Habitat		471
4.3.13.3 Problems Affecting Habitats		471
4.3.13.4 Climate Change Compared to Other Threats		473
4.3.13.5 Impacts to Wildlife		473
4.3.13.6 Recommendations		475
4.3.13.6.1 Surveys		475
4.3.13.6.2 Monitoring		475
4.3.13.6.3 Research		475
4.3.13.6.4 Management Practices		475
4.3.13.6.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		477
4.4 Terrestrial Communities		479
4.4.1 Introduction		479
4.4.2 Caves and Mines		481
4.4.2.1 Ecosystem Description		481
4.4.2.2 Location of Habitat		481
4.4.2.3 Problems Affecting Habitats		481
4.4.2.4 Climate Change Compared to Other Threats		483
4.4.2.5 Impacts to Wildlife		483
4.4.2.6 Recommendations		485
4.4.2.6.1 Surveys		485
4.4.2.6.2 Monitoring		485
4.4.2.6.3 Research		487
4.4.2.6.4 Management Practices		487
4.4.2.6.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		487
4.4.3 Spruce-Fir Forests		489
4.4.3.1 Ecosystem Description		489
4.4.3.2 Location of Habitat		489
4.4.3.3 Problems Affecting HabitatsRed Spruce-Fraser Fir forests are considered		491
4.4.3.4 Climate Change Compared to Other Threats		491
4.4.3.5 Impacts to Wildlife		493
4.4.3.6 Recommendations		495
4.4.3.6.1 Surveys		495
4.4.3.6.2 Monitoring		495
4.4.3.6.3 Research		497
4.4.3.6.4 Management Practices		497
4.4.3.6.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		499
4.4.4 Northern Hardwood Forests		499
4.4.4.1 Ecosystem Description		499
4.4.4.2 Location of Habitat		501
4.4.4.3 Problems Affecting Habitats		501
4.4.4.4 Climate Change Compared to Other Threats		501
4.4.4.5 Impacts to Wildlife		503
4.4.4.6 Recommendations		503
4.4.4.6.1 Surveys		503
4.4.4.6.2 Monitoring		505
4.4.4.6.3 Research		505
4.4.4.6.4 Management Practices		505
4.4.4.6.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		507
4.4.5 Cove Forests		507
4.4.5.1 Ecosystem Description		507
4.4.5.2 Location of Habitat		507
4.4.5.3 Problems Affecting Habitats		507
4.4.5.4 Climate Change Compared to Other Threats		509
4.4.5.5 Impacts to Wildlife		509
4.4.5.6 Recommendations		511
4.4.5.6.1 Surveys		511
4.4.5.6.2 Monitoring		511
4.4.5.6.3 Research		513
4.4.5.6.4 Management Practices		513
4.4.5.6.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		513
4.4.6 Mafic Glades and Barrens		515
4.4.6.1 Ecosystem Description		515
4.4.6.2 Location of Habitat		515
4.4.6.3 Problems Affecting Habitats		515
4.4.6.4 Climate Change Compared to Other Threats		515
4.4.6.5 Impacts to Wildlife		517
4.4.6.6 Recommendations		517
4.4.6.6.1 Surveys		517
4.4.6.6.2 Monitoring		517
4.4.6.6.3 Research		519
4.4.6.6.4 Management Practices		519
4.4.6.6.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		519
4.4.7 Grass and Heath Balds		521
4.4.7.1 Ecosystem Description		521
4.4.7.2 Location of Habitat		521
4.4.7.3 Problems Affecting Habitats		521
4.4.7.4 Climate Change Compared to Other Threats		521
4.4.7.5 Impacts to Wildlife		523
4.4.7.6 Recommendations		523
4.4.7.6.1 Surveys		523
4.4.7.6.2 Monitoring		523
4.4.7.6.3 Research		525
4.4.7.6.4 Management Practices		525
4.4.7.6.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		525
4.4.8 High-Elevation Cliffs and Rock Outcrops		527
4.4.8.1 Ecosystem Description		527
4.4.8.2 Location of Habitat		527
4.4.8.3 Problems Affecting Habitats		527
4.4.8.4 Climate Change Compared to Other Threats		527
4.4.8.5 Impacts to Wildlife		529
4.4.8.6 Recommendations		529
4.4.8.6.1 Surveys		529
4.4.8.6.2 Monitoring		531
4.4.8.6.3 Research		531
4.4.8.6.4 Management Practices		531
4.4.8.6.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		531
4.4.9 Low Elevation Flatrocks, Cliffs, and Rock Outcrops		533
4.4.9.1 Ecosystem Description		533
4.4.9.2 Location of Habitat		535
4.4.9.3 Problems Affecting Habitats		535
4.4.9.4 Climate Change Compared to Other Threats		537
4.4.9.5 Impacts to Wildlife		539
4.4.9.6 Recommendations		539
4.4.9.6.1 Surveys		539
4.4.9.6.2 Monitoring		541
4.4.9.6.3 Research		541
4.4.9.6.4 Management Practices		541
4.4.9.6.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		541
4.4.10 Mesic Forests		543
4.4.10.1 Ecosystem Description		543
4.4.10.2 Location of Habitat		543
4.4.10.3 Problems Affecting Habitats		545
4.4.10.4 Climate Change Compared to Other Threats		545
4.4.10.5 Impacts to Wildlife		545
4.4.10.6 Recommendations		547
4.4.10.6.1 Surveys		547
4.4.10.6.2 Monitoring		547
4.4.10.6.3 Research		547
4.4.10.6.4 Management Practices		547
4.4.10.6.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		549
4.4.11 Piedmont and Mountain Dry Coniferous Woodlands		551
4.4.11.1 Ecosystem Description		551
4.4.11.2 Location of Habitat		551
4.4.11.3 Problems Affecting Habitats		551
4.4.11.4 Climate Change Compared to Other Threats		551
4.4.11.5 Impacts to Wildlife		553
4.4.11.6 Recommendations		553
4.4.11.6.1 Surveys		553
4.4.11.6.2 Monitoring		555
4.4.11.6.3 Research		555
4.4.11.6.4 Management Practices		555
4.4.11.6.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		555
4.4.12 Oak and Mixed Hardwood/Pine Forests and Managed Timber		557
4.4.12.1 Ecosystem Description		557
4.4.12.2 Location of Habitat		559
4.4.12.3 Problems Affecting Habitats		559
4.4.12.4 Climate Change Compared to Other Threats		559
4.4.12.5 Impacts to Wildlife		561
4.4.12.6 Recommendations		563
4.4.12.6.1 Surveys		563
4.4.12.6.2 Monitoring		563
4.4.12.6.3 Research		563
4.4.12.6.4 Management Practices		565
4.4.12.6.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		565
4.4.13 Montane Oak Forests		567
4.4.13.1 Ecosystem Description		567
4.4.13.2 Location of Habitat		567
4.4.13.3 Problems Affecting Habitats		567
4.4.13.4 Climate Change Compared to Other Threats		567
4.4.13.5 Impacts to Wildlife		569
4.4.13.6 Recommendations		569
4.4.13.6.1 Surveys		569
4.4.13.6.2 Monitoring		569
4.4.13.6.3 Research		571
4.4.13.6.4 Management Practices		571
4.4.13.6.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		573
4.4.13.6.1 Surveys		569
4.4.13.6.2 Monitoring		569
4.4.13.6.3 Research		571
4.4.13.6.4 Management Practices		571
4.4.13.6.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		573
4.4.14 Dry Longleaf Pine Communities		573
4.4.14.1 Ecosystem Description		573
4.4.14.2 Location of Habitat		573
4.4.14.3 Problems Affecting Habitats		575
4.4.14.4 Climate Change Compared to Other Threats		575
4.4.13.5 Impacts to Wildlife		577
4.4.14.6 Recommendations		577
4.4.14.6.1 Surveys		577
4.4.14.6.2 Monitoring		579
4.4.14.6.3 Research		579
4.4.14.6.4 Management Practices		579
4.4.14.6.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		579
4.4.15 Piedmont and Coastal Plain Oak Forest		581
4.4.15.1 Ecosystem Description		581
4.4.15.2 Location of Habitat		581
4.4.15.3 Problems Affecting Habitats		581
4.4.15.4 Climate Change Compared to Other Threats		583
4.4.15.5 Impacts to Wildlife		585
4.4.15.6 Recommendations		585
4.4.15.6.1 Surveys		585
4.4.15.6.2 Monitoring		587
4.4.15.6.3 Research		587
4.4.15.6.4 Management Practices		587
4.4.15.6.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		587
4.4.16 Maritime Forests		589
4.4.16.1 Ecosystem Description		589
4.4.16.2 Location of Habitat		589
4.4.16.3 Problems Affecting Habitats		591
4.4.16.4 Climate Change Compared to Other Threats		591
4.4.16.5 Impacts to Wildlife		591
4.4.16.6 Recommendations		593
4.4.16.6.1 Surveys		593
4.4.16.6.2 Monitoring		593
4.4.16.6.3 Research		593
4.4.16.6.4 Management Practices		595
4.4.16.6.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		595
4.4.17 Maritime Grasslands, Dunes, and Beaches		597
4.4.17.1 Ecosystem Description		597
4.4.17.2 Location of Habitat		597
4.4.17.3 Problems Affecting Habitats		597
4.4.17.4 Climate Change Compared to Other Threats		599
4.4.17.5 Impacts to Wildlife		599
4.4.17.6 Recommendations		601
4.4.17.6.1 Surveys		601
4.4.17.6.2 Monitoring		601
4.4.17.6.3 Research		603
4.4.17.6.4 Management Practices		603
4.4.17.6.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		605
4.4.18 Sand, Shell, and Wrack Active Shoreline		606
4.4.18.1 Ecosystem Description		605
4.4.18.2 Location of Habitat		605
4.4.18.3 Problems Affecting Habitats		607
4.4.18.4 Climate Change Compared to Other Threats		607
4.4.18.5 Impacts to Wildlife		607
4.4.18.6 Recommendations		609
4.4.18.6.1 Surveys		609
4.4.18.6.2 Monitoring		609
4.4.18.6.3 Research		611
4.4.18.6.4 Management Practices		611
4.4.18.6.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		611
4.4.19 Successional Communities (Herb, Shrub, Woody)		613
4.4.19.1 Ecosystem Description		613
4.4.19.2 Location of Habitat		615
4.4.19.3 Problems Affecting Habitats		615
4.4.19.4 Climate Change Compared to Other Threats		617
4.4.19.5 Impacts to Wildlife		617
4.4.19.6 Recommendations		619
4.4.19.6.1 Surveys		619
4.4.19.6.2 Monitoring		621
4.4.19.6.3 Research		621
4.4.19.6.4 Management Practices		621
4.4.19.6.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		623
4.4.20 Sparsely Settled Mixed Habitats		625
4.4.20.1 Ecosystem Description		625
4.4.20.2 Location of Habitat		625
4.4.20.3 Problems Affecting Habitats		625
4.4.20.4 Climate Change Compared to Other Threats		625
4.4.20.5 Impacts to Wildlife		625
4.4.20.6 Recommendations		627
4.4.20.6.1 Surveys		627
4.4.20.6.2 Monitoring		627
4.4.20.6.3 Research		629
4.4.20.6.4 Management Practices		629
4.4.20.6.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		629
4.5 River Basins		631
4.5.1 Introduction		631
4.5.2 Aquatic Biodiversity and Imperilment		633
4.5.3 Aquatic Conservation Priorities, Strategies, and Recommendations		633
4.5.3.1 Aquatic Conservation Priorities		635
4.5.3.2 Conservation Strategies		635
4.5.3.3 Statewide Priority Recommendations for All River Basins		635
4.5.3.3.1 Surveys		637
4.5.3.3.2 Monitoring		637
4.5.3.3.3 Research		637
4.5.3.3.4 Management Practices		639
4.5.3.3.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		639
4.5.4 Broad River Basin		643
4.5.4.1 River Basin Description		643
4.5.4.2 Aquatic Resource Conditions		643
4.5.4.3 Aquatic Species		645
4.5.4.4 Threats Affecting Aquatic Species		645
4.5.4.5 Basin Specific Recommendations		647
4.5.4.5.1 Surveys		647
4.5.4.5.2 Monitoring		647
4.5.4.5.3 Research		647
4.5.4.5.4 Management Practices		649
4.5.4.5.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		650
4.5.5 Cape Fear River Basin		651
4.5.5.1 River Basin Description		651
4.5.5.2 Aquatic Resource Conditions		653
4.5.5.3 Aquatic Species		653
4.5.5.4 Threats Affecting Aquatic Species		655
4.5.5.5 Basin Specific Recommendations		655
4.5.5.5.1 Surveys		655
4.5.5.5.2 Monitoring		655
4.5.5.5.3 Research		657
4.5.5.5.4 Management Practices		657
4.5.5.5.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		657
4.5.6 Catawba River Basin		661
4.5.6.1 River Basin Description		661
4.5.6.2 Aquatic Resource Conditions		661
4.5.6.3 Aquatic Species		663
4.5.6.4 Threats Affecting Aquatic Species		663
4.5.6.5 Basin Specific Recommendations		665
4.5.6.5.1 Surveys		665
4.5.6.5.2 Monitoring		665
4.5.6.5.3 Research		665
4.5.6.5.4 Management Practices		667
4.5.6.5.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		667
4.5.7 Chowan River Basin		669
4.5.7.1 River Basin Description		669
4.5.7.2 Aquatic Resource Conditions		671
4.5.7.3 Aquatic Species		671
4.5.7.4 Threats Affecting Aquatic Species		671
4.5.7.5 Basin Specific Recommendations		673
4.5.7.5.1 Surveys		673
4.5.7.5.2 Monitoring		675
4.5.7.5.3 Research		675
4.5.7.5.4 Management Practices		675
4.5.7.5.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		675
4.5.8 French Broad River Basin		679
4.5.8.1 River Basin Description		679
4.5.8.2 Aquatic Resource Conditions		679
4.5.8.3 Aquatic Species		681
4.5.8.4 Threats Affecting Aquatic Species		681
4.5.8.5 Basin Specific Recommendations		685
4.5.8.5.1 Surveys		685
4.5.8.5.2 Monitoring		685
4.5.8.5.3 Research		687
4.5.8.5.4 Management Practices		687
4.5.8.5.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		687
4.5.9 Hiwassee River Basin		691
4.5.9.1 River Basin Description		691
4.5.9.2 Aquatic Resource Conditions		691
4.5.9.3 Aquatic Species		693
4.5.9.4 Threats Affecting Aquatic Species		693
4.5.9.5 Basin Specific Recommendations		695
4.5.9.5.1 Surveys		695
4.5.9.5.2 Monitoring		695
4.5.9.5.3 Research		697
4.5.9.5.4 Management Practices		697
4.5.9.5.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		699
4.5.10 Little Tennessee River Basin		701
4.5.10.1 River Basin Description		701
4.5.10.2 Aquatic Resource Conditions		701
4.5.10.3 Aquatic Species		703
4.5.10.4 Threats Affecting Aquatic Species		703
4.5.10.5 Basin Specific Recommendations		705
4.5.10.5.1 Surveys		705
4.5.10.5.2 Monitoring		705
4.5.10.5.3 Research		705
4.5.10.5.4 Management Practices		707
4.5.10.5.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		707
4.5.11 Lumber River Basin		711
4.5.11.1 River Basin Description		711
4.5.11.2 Aquatic Resource Conditions		711
4.5.11.3 Aquatic Species		713
4.5.11.4 Threats Affecting Aquatic Species		713
4.5.11.5 Basin Specific Recommendations		713
4.5.11.5.1 Surveys		713
4.5.11.5.2 Monitoring		713
4.5.11.5.3 Research		715
4.5.11.5.4 Management Practices		715
4.5.11.5.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		715
4.5.12 Neuse River Basin		719
4.5.12.1 River Basin Description		719
4.5.12.2 Aquatic Resources		719
4.5.12.3 Aquatic Species		721
4.5.12.4 Threats Affecting Aquatic Species		721
4.5.12.5 Basin Specific Recommendations		723
4.5.12.5.1 Surveys		723
4.5.12.5.2 Monitoring		725
4.5.12.5.3 Research		725
4.5.12.5.4 Management Practices		725
4.5.12.5.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		727
4.5.13 New River Basin		729
4.5.13.1 River Basin Description		729
4.5.13.2 Aquatic Resource Conditions		731
4.5.13.3 Aquatic Species		731
4.5.13.4 Threats Affecting Aquatic Species		733
4.5.13.5 Basin Specific Recommendations		733
4.5.13.5.1 Surveys		733
4.5.13.5.2 Monitoring		735
4.5.13.5.3 Research		735
4.5.13.5.4 Management Practices		735
4.5.13.5.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		737
4.5.14 Pasquotank River Basin		739
4.5.14.1 River Basin Description		739
4.5.14.2 Aquatic Resource Conditions		739
4.5.14.3 Aquatic Species		741
4.5.14.4 Threats Affecting Aquatic Species		741
4.5.14.5 Basin Specific Recommendations		741
4.5.14.5.1 Surveys		741
4.5.14.5.2 Monitoring		743
4.5.14.5.3 Research		743
4.5.14.5.4 Management Practices		743
4.5.14.5.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		745
4.5.15 Roanoke River Basin		747
4.5.15.1 River Basin Description		747
4.5.15.2 Aquatic Resource Conditions		747
4.5.15.3 Aquatic Species		749
4.5.15.4 Threats Affecting Aquatic Species		749
4.5.15.5 Basin Specific Recommendations		749
4.5.15.5.1 Surveys		749
4.5.15.5.2 Monitoring		751
4.5.15.5.3 Research		751
4.5.15.5.4 Management Practices		753
4.5.15.5.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		753
4.5.16 Savannah River Basin		755
4.5.16.1 River Basin Description		755
4.5.16.2 Aquatic Resource Conditions		755
4.5.16.3 Aquatic Species		755
4.5.16.4 Threats Affecting Aquatic Species		755
4.5.16.5 Basin Specific Recommendations		757
4.5.16.5.1 Surveys		757
4.5.16.5.2 Monitoring		757
4.5.16.5.3 Research		757
4.5.16.5.4 Management Practices		759
4.5.16.5.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		759
4.5.17 Tar-Pamlico River Basin		761
4.5.17.1 River Basin Description		761
4.5.17.2 Aquatic Resource Conditions		763
4.5.17.3 Aquatic Species		763
4.5.17.4 Threats Affecting Aquatic Species		765
4.5.17.5 Basin Specific Recommendations		765
4.5.17.5.1 Surveys		765
4.5.17.5.2 Monitoring		767
4.5.17.5.3 Research		767
4.5.17.5.4 Management Practices		767
4.5.17.5.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		769
4.5.18 Watauga River Basin		771
4.5.18.1 River Basin Description		771
4.5.18.2 Aquatic Resource Conditions		771
4.5.18.3 Aquatic Species		771
4.5.18.4 Threats Affecting Aquatic Species		773
4.5.18.5 Basin Specific Recommendations		773
4.5.18.5.1 Surveys		773
4.5.18.5.2 Monitoring		773
4.5.18.5.3 Research		775
4.5.18.5.4 Management Practices		775
4.5.18.5.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		775
4.5.19 White Oak River Basin		777
4.5.19.1 River Basin Description		777
4.5.19.2 Aquatic Resource Conditions		779
4.5.19.3 Aquatic Species		779
4.5.19.4 Threats Affecting Aquatic Species		779
4.5.19.5 Basin Specific Recommendations		781
4.5.19.5.1 Surveys		781
4.5.19.5.2 Monitoring		781
4.5.19.5.3 Research		781
4.5.19.5.4 Management Practices		783
4.5.19.5.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		783
4.5.20 Yadkin-Pee Dee River Basin		785
4.5.20.1 River Basin Description		785
4.5.20.2 Aquatic Resource Conditions		787
4.5.20.3 Aquatic Species		787
4.5.20.4 Threats Affecting Aquatic Species		787
4.5.20.5 Basin Specific Recommendations		789
4.5.20.5.1 Surveys		789
4.5.20.5.2 Monitoring		789
4.5.20.5.3 Research		791
4.5.20.5.4 Management Practices		791
4.5.20.5.5 Conservation Programs and Partnerships		793
Chapter 5. Threats		795
5.1 Introduction		795
5.2 Threats, Stressors, and Emerging Concerns		795
5.3 Residential and Commercial Development		799
5.3.1 Anticipated Impacts		801
5.3.2 SGCN Priority Species		803
5.4 Agriculture and Aquaculture		803
5.4.1 Agriculture - Anticipated Impacts		805
5.4.2 Aquaculture - Anticipated Impacts		805
5.4.3 Silviculture - Anticipated Impacts		805
5.4.4 SGCN Priority Species		807
5.5 Energy Production and Mining		807
5.5.1 Biomass and Biofuels – Anticipated Impacts		807
5.5.2 Coal Energy – Anticipated Impacts		809
5.5.3 Oil and Gas Extraction – Anticipated Impacts		811
5.5.4 Hydropower – Anticipated Impacts		813
5.5.5 Mining and Quarries – Anticipated Impacts		813
5.5.6 Nuclear Energy – Anticipated Impacts		815
5.5.7 Solar Energy – Anticipated Impacts		815
5.5.8 Wind Energy – Anticipated Impacts		817
5.5.9 SGCN Priority Species		817
5.6 Transportation and Service Corridors		819
5.6.1 Anticipated Impacts		819
5.6.2 SGCN Priority Species		819
5.7 Biological Resource Use		819
5.7.1 Anticipated Impacts		821
5.7.2 SGCN Priority Species		823
5.8 Human Intrusions and Disturbance		823
5.8.1 Anticipated Impacts		823
5.8.2 SGCN Priority Species		825
5.9 Natural System Modifications		827
5.9.1 Anticipated Impacts		827
5.9.2 SGCN Priority Species		827
5.10 Invasive and Other Problematic Species and Genes		829
5.10.1 Aquatic Systems – Anticipated Impacts		829
5.10.2 Terrestrial Systems – Anticipated Impacts		831
5.10.3 SGCN Priority Species		833
5.11 Pollution and Contaminants		835
5.11.1 Sewage, Solid Wastes, and Effluents – Anticipated Impacts		835
5.11.2 Chemicals and Toxic Compounds – Anticipated Impacts		835
5.11.3 Airborne Pollutants – Anticipated Impacts		837
5.11.4 Excess Energy – Anticipated Impacts		837
5.11.5 SGCN Priority Species		837
5.12 Climate Change		839
5.12.1 Incorporating Climate Change		839
5.12.1.1 North Carolina Climate Assessments		839
5.12.2 Sea Level Rise - Anticipated Impacts		841
5.12.3 Temperature Changes – Anticipated Impacts		843
5.12.4 Precipitation Changes – Anticipated Impacts		843
5.12.5 SGCN Priority Species		845
5.13 Disease and Pathogens		845
5.13.1 Amphibians - Anticipated Impacts		847
5.13.2 Birds – Anticipated Impacts		847
5.13.3 Crayfishes – Anticipated Impacts		849
5.13.4 Mammals – Anticipated Impacts		849
5.13.5 Reptiles – Anticipated Impacts		849
5.13.6 Freshwater Fishes – Anticipated Impacts		851
5.13.7 Pollinators – Anticipated Impacts		851
5.13.8 SGCN Priority Species		851
Chapter 6: Conservation Goals and Priorities in North Carolina		853
6.1 Introduction		853
6.2 Planning and Implementing Conservation		853
6.2.1 Developing Conservation Goals		855
6.2.1.1 Conservation Goals Framework		855
6.2.2 Conservation Funding Resources		855
6.2.2.1 Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF)		855
6.2.2.2 North Carolina Land and Water Fund (NCLWF)		855
6.2.2.3 Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF)		855
6.2.2.4 National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF)		855
6.2.2.5 Parks and Recreation Trust Fund (PARTF)		857
6.2.2.6 Agricultural Development and Farmland Preservation Trust Fund (ADFP)		857
6.2.2.7 Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Programs		857
6.2.2.8 NC Forest Legacy Program (FLP)		857
6.2.2.9 NC Tax Checkoff for Nongame and Endangered Wildlife		858
6.2.2.10 NC Wildlife Diversity Endowment Fund		858
6.2.2.11 NC Wildlife Endowment Fund		858
6.2.2.12 NC Wildlife Conservation Account		858
6.2.2.13 Green Growth Toolbox		858
6.2.2.14 North Carolina Land Trusts		859
6.2.3 Conservation Tools and Data Resources for NC		859
6.2.3.1 NC OneMap Geospatial Portal		859
6.2.3.2 NC Natural Heritage Data Explorer		859
6.2.3.3 Green Growth Toolbox (GGT)		859
6.2.3.4 NC Gap Analysis Project (NC-GAP)		859
6.2.3.5 Data Basin		859
6.2.3.6 Southeast Conservation Blueprint		861
6.2.3.7 USGS State Wildlife Action Plans		861
6.3 Conservation Opportunities and Incentives		861
6.3.1 Conservation Opportunity Areas		861
6.3.1.1 2015 Conservation Opportunity Areas		861
6.3.1.2 2025 Conservation Opportunity Areas		863
6.3.1.2.1 Intact Habitat Cores		863
6.3.1.2.2 COA Tiers		864
6.3.2 Private Lands and Conservation Incentives		865
6.3.2.1 Strategies and Recommendations		865
6.3.2.2 Incentives and Programs		867
6.3.3 Public Land Stewardship		869
6.3.3.1 State-owned Public Lands		869
6.3.3.2 Federally Owned Public Lands		871
6.3.3.3 Municipal Parks and Open Space		871
6.3.3.4 Strategies and Recommendations		873
6.3.4 Education and Outreach		873
6.3.4.1 Public Education		875
6.3.4.2 Citizen Science Outreach		875
6.3.4.3 Connecting with Wildlife		877
6.3.4.4 Strategies and Recommendations		877
6.3.4.4.1 Wildlife Education Programs		879
6.3.4.4.2 Wildlife Educational Materials		879
6.3.4.4.3 Engaging the Public		879
6.3.4.4.4 Connecting Recreation and Wildlife		879
6.3.4.4.5 Education and Training Opportunities		879
6.3.5 Technical Guidance, Rules, and Regulations		881
6.3.5.1 Strategies and Recommendations		881
6.3.5.1.1 Outreach		881
6.3.5.1.2 Land Management		881
6.3.5.1.3 Development		881
6.3.5.1.4 Rules and Regulations		883
6.3.6 Partnerships and Cooperative Efforts		883
6.4 Federal Conservation Partners		885
6.4.1 US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS)		885
6.4.2 US Forest Service (USFS)		885
6.4.3 National Park Service (NPS)		887
6.4.4 Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)		887
6.4.5 National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Fisheries		887
6.4.6 US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA)		889
6.4.7 US Geological Survey (USGS)		889
6.4.8 US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) – Wilmington District		889
6.4.9 Department of Defense (DOD)		891
6.5 State Conservation Partners		893
6.5.1 NC Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC)		893
6.5.2 NC Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (NCDNCR)		895
6.5.2.1 NC Natural Heritage Program (NCNHP)		895
6.5.2.2 NC Museum of Natural Sciences (NCMNS)		895
6.5.2.3 NC Division of Parks and Recreation (NCDPR)		895
6.5.2.4 NC Aquariums		897
6.5.2.5 NC Zoological Park (Zoo)		897
6.5.3 NC Department of Environmental Quality (NCDEQ)		897
6.5.3.1 NC Division of Coastal Management (NCDCM)		897
6.5.3.2 NC Division of Energy, Mineral and Land Resources (NCDEMLR)		899
6.5.3.3 NC Division of Marine Fisheries (NCDMF)		899
6.5.3.4 NC Division of Mitigation Services (NCDMS)		899
6.5.3.5 NC Division of Water Resources (NCDWR)		899
6.5.3.6 Office of Environmental Education and Public Affairs		901
6.5.4 NC Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (NCDACS)		901
6.5.4.1 NC Forest Service (NCFS)		901
6.5.4.2 Plant Conservation Program (PCP)		901
6.5.4.3 Division of Soil and Water Conservation (S&WC)		903
6.5.4.4 Plant Industry Division, Apiary Program		903
6.5.5 NC Department of Transportation (NCDOT)		903
6.6 Native Americans		905
6.6.1 Federal History and Indian Tribe Recognition		905
6.6.2 North Carolina’s Indigenous People		905
6.6.2.1 Coharie Tribe		907
6.6.2.2 Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians		907
6.6.2.3 Haliwa-Saponi Tribe		909
6.6.2.4 Lumbee Tribe		909
6.6.2.5 Meherrin Tribe		909
6.6.2.6 Occaneechi Band of Saponi Nation		911
6.6.2.7 Sappony Tribe		911
6.6.2.8 Waccamaw-Siouan Tribe		911
6.6.3 Federal Resources		911
6.6.4 State Resources		911
6.7 Land Trusts and Private Conservation Organizations		913
6.7.1 Audubon North Carolina		913
6.7.2 North Carolina Wildlife Federation (NCWF)		913
6.7.3 The Conservation Trust for North Carolina (CTNC)		913
6.7.4 The Nature Conservancy (TNC)		915
6.7.5 North Carolina’s Land Trusts		915
6.7.6 North Carolina Conservation Network (NCCN)		915
6.8 Local and Municipal Programs		917
6.9 Other Statewide Conservation Partners and Initiatives		919
6.9.1 Albemarle-Pamlico National Estuary Partnership (APNEP)		919
6.9.2 Appalachian Mountains Joint Venture (AMJV)		919
6.9.3 Atlantic Coast Joint Venture (ACJV)		919
6.9.4 Blue Ridge Conservancy (BRC)		921
6.9.5 Cape Fear Arch Conservation Collaborative (CFACC)		921
6.9.6 Cape Fear River Partnership (CFRP)		921
6.9.7 Chatham Conservation Partnership (CCP)		921
6.9.8 Eastern Brook Trout Joint Venture (EBTJV)		923
6.9.9 Greater Uwharrie Conservation Partnership (GUCP)		923
6.9.10 NC Longleaf Coalition		923
6.9.11 NC Partners in Amphibian and Reptile Conservation (NCPARC)		923
6.9.12 NC Partners In Flight (NCPIF)		923
6.9.13 NC Prescribed Fire Council		925
6.9.14 NC Sandhills Conservation Partnership (NCSCP)		925
6.9.15 Onslow Bight Conservation Forum		925
6.9.16 Resource Conservation & Development Councils (RC&D)		925
6.9.17 Robust Redhorse Conservation Committee (RRCC)		927
6.9.18 South Atlantic Salt Marsh Initiative (SASMI)		927
6.9.19 Southeast Aquatic Resources Partnership (SARP)		927
6.9.20 Triangle Connectivity Collaborative (TCC)		929
6.9.21 Upper Neuse River Basin Association (UNRBA)		929
6.9.22 Upper Tar Collaboration		929
6.10 Other National and International Programs and Partnerships		931
6.10.1 One Health Initiative		931
6.10.2 International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)		931
Chapter 7. Monitoring		933
7.1 Introduction		933
7.1.1 Monitoring on Public Lands		933
7.1.2 Monitoring Coordination and Data Sharing		935
7.1.3 Indicators and Targets		937
7.2 Monitoring Protocols		939
7.2.1 Amphibians and Reptiles		939
7.2.2 Aquatic Species		939
7.2.3 Birds		939
7.2.4 Mammals		941
7.3 Species Monitoring		943
7.3.1 Amphibians and Reptiles		943
7.3.2 Aquatic Species		943
7.3.3 Birds		945
7.3.4 Mammals		945
7.4 Habitat Monitoring		947
7.4.1 Terrestrial Habitat Monitoring Programs		947
7.4.2 Aquatic Habitats Monitoring		949
7.4.2.1 Water column		949
7.4.2.2 Submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV)		949
7.4.2.3 Wetlands		951
7.4.2.4 Soft bottom		951
7.4.2.5 Hard bottom		951
Chapter 8. Review, Coordination, Revision, andNext Steps		953
8.1 Introduction		953
8.2 Review and Revision Steps: 2025		954
8.2.1 Work Groups		954
8.2.2 Technical Team		955
8.2.3 Taxa Teams		955
8.2.4 Technical Review and Revision		955
8.2.5 Public Outreach, Review and Comment		956
8.3 Future Review and Revision		957
8.3.1 Short-term Revisions		958
8.3.2 Planned Interim and Comprehensive Revision		958
3-2025 NC State Wildlife Action Plan revision - APPENDICES		960
APPENDIX 1		960
Appendix 1-1 Eight Required Elements		960
Appendix 1-2 USFWS Letter of Acknowledgement		962
Appendix 1-3 Key Participants		964
Appendix 1-4 Eight Required Elements		970
Appendix 1-5 Letters of Support		972
Appendix 1-6 Acronyms		982
Appendix 1-7 Glossary		990
APPENDIX 2		1002
Appendix 2-1 Success Story 1		1002
Appendix 2-2 Success Story 2		1004
Appendix 2-3 Success Story 3		1008
Appendix 2-4 Success Story 4		1012
Appendix 2-5 Success Story 5		1016
Appendix 2-6 Success Story 6		1018
Appendix 2-7 Success Story 7		1022
APPENDIX 3		1024
Appendix 3 Reference Document 3-1		1024
Appendix 3 Reference Document 3-2		1056
Appendix 3 Reference Document 3-3		1084
Appendix 3 Figure 3.3.7-1. BCRs and IBAs		1144
Figure 3-11.5-1. BOEM Wind Energy Map		1146
Table 3-1. SGCN - AMPHIBIANS		1148
Table 3-2. SGCN - BIRDS		1150
Table 3-3. SGCN - CRAYFISH		1156
Table 3-4. SGCN - FRESHWATER FISH		1158
Table 3-5. SGCN - FRESHWATER MUSSELS		1162
Table 3-6. SGCN - MAMMALS		1164
Table 3-7. SGCN - REPTILES		1166
Table 3-8. SGCN - AQUATIC SNAILS		1168
Table 3-9. SGCN - LAND SNAILS		1169
Table 3-10. SGCN - INSECTS		1174
Table 3-11. SGCN - PLANTS		1180
Table 3-12. SGCN - EBCI SGCN and Culturally ImportantPriority Species		1190
Table 3-13. Federal and state listing status abbreviations and definitions		1196
Table 3-14. Invasive or nonnative species common and scientific names.		1198
Table 3-15. Selected Federal and North Carolina laws that protect wildlife.		1202
Table 3-16. Selected Federal and North Carolina laws that protect plants.		1204
Table 3-17. SGCN - Terrestrial Habitat Associations		1206
Table 3-17. AMPHIBIANS SGCN - Habitat Associations		1208
Table 3-17. BIRDS SGCN - Habitat Associations		1212
Table 3-17. MAMMALS SGCN - Habitat Associations		1218
Table 3-17. REPTILES SGCN - Habitat Associations		1220
Table 3-17. LAND SNAILS SGCN - Habitat Associations		1222
Table 3-18. SGCN - Aquatic Habitat Associations		1228
Table 3-18. AMPHIBIAN SGCN - Aquatic Habitat Associations		1230
Table 3-18. CRAYFISH SGCN - Aquatic Habitat Associations		1232
Table 3-18. FRESHWATER FISH SGCN - Aquatic Habitat Associations		1234
Table 3-18. FRESHWATER MUSSELS SGCN - Aquatic Habitat Associations		1240
Table 3-18. REPTILE SGCN - Aquatic Habitat Associations		1242
Table 3-18. AQUATIC SNAIL SGCN - Aquatic Habitat Associations		1244
Table 3-19. Population Targets Included in Recovery, Conservation, and Management Plans		1246
Table 3-20. SGCN - PELAGIC SEABIRD		1250
Table 3-21. SGCN - MARINE SPECIES		1252
Table 3-22. SGCN - PLANTS - Habitat Associations		1254
APPENDIX 4		1278
Figure 4.2.3-1. River Basins where coldwater habitats occur in western NC.		1278
Table 4.1-1. Aquatic communities and ecoregion associations		1280
Table 4.1-2. Wetland natural community types and ecoregion associations		1281
Table 4.1-3. Upland natural community types and ecoregion associations		1282
Table 4.1-4. North Carolina river basins and ecoregion associations		1283
APPENDIX 5		1284
Reference Document 5-1 WRC Climate Resilience Strategy, Executive Summary		1284
Reference Document 5-2 Southeast Conservation Adaptation Strategy (SECAS), NC Regional Perspective		1292
Reference Document 5-3 Appalachia as Both a Climate Refuge and Climate- Stressed Habitat for NC Species		1361
Table 5.3-1. Species at Risk of ImpactsFrom Residential & Commercial Development		1387
Table 5.4-1. Species at Risk of Impacts From Agriculture & Aquaculture		1391
Table 5.5-1. Species at Risk of Impacts From Energy Production & Mining		1395
Table 5.6-1. Species at Risk of Impacts From Transportation & Service Corridors		1397
Table 5.7-1. Species at Risk of Impacts From Biological Resource Use		1399
Table 5.8-1. Species at Risk of Impacts From Human Intrusions & Disturbance		1401
Table 5.9-1. Species at Risk of Impacts From Natural System Modifications		1403
Table 5.10-1. Species at Risk of Impacts From Invasive & Other Problematic Species & Genes		1409
Table 5.11-1. Species at Risk of Impacts From Pollution & Contaminants		1411
Table 5.12-1. Species at Risk of Impacts From Climate Change		1419
Table 5.13-1. Species at Risk of Impacts From Disease and Pathogens		1425
APPENDIX 6		1427
Reference Document 6-1. Southeast Conservation Blueprint Summary for NC		1427
Reference Document 6-2. Developing COAs for the 2025 NC SWAP		1513
APPENDIX 6 Reference Document 6-2 SECAS 2025 Final Support_For_NC_COA_Documentation.pdf		1514
Contents		1514
Summary		1515
Overall approach		1515
Part I: Calculating species richness within NC intact habitat cores		1516
Input data		1516
General mapping steps		1517
Plant analysis		1517
Animal analysis		1517
Detailed mapping steps		1518
Prepare the intact habitat cores data		1518
Prepare the plant Heritage data		1518
Assign the plant data to the cores		1519
Prepare the animal Heritage data		1519
Assign the animal data to the cores		1520
Combine the plant and animal core species counts to calculate total species richness		1520
Outputs		1520
Publicly sharable layers		1520
NC_cores_ranked_by_heritage_species_totals		1520
Fields		1521
Sensitive layers		1521
SENSITIVE_DO_NOT_SHARE_NC_cores_with_heritage_plants		1521
Fields		1521
SENSITIVE_DO_NOT_SHARE_NC_cores_with_heritage_animals		1521
Fields		1521
Summary of results		1521
Part II: Additional aquatic, connectivity, and Blueprint priorities		1522
Rationale for further COA development		1522
Input data		1523
General mapping steps		1523
Detailed mapping steps		1523
Prepare input layers to combine in the COA analysis		1523
Combine Blueprint layers and remove estuarine areas		1524
Add in the habitat cores		1524
Outputs		1525
Publicly sharable layers		1525
NC_COA_2025		1525
Fields		1525
Summary of results		1525
Credits		1527
Figure 6.3.1-1. Map depicting NC and adjacent state COAs developed by SECAS for 2025SWAPs.		1528
Table 6-1. Objectives and example strategies and priority actions for conservation of species		1530
Table 6.2 Objectives and example strategies and priority actions for conservationof habitats.		1534
APPENDIX 7		1538
Table 7-1. Species-Specific Monitoring Efforts		1538
Table 7-2. Guild and Species Assemblage Monitoring		1540
Table 7-3. Activity and Project Specific Monitoring		1543
APPENDIX 8		1546
8-1. WRC SWAP Revision Outreach Flyers		1546
8-2. WRC Public Comment Period Announcement		1552
4-2025 NC State Wildlife Action Plan revision - REFERENCES		1562
Structure Bookmarks		1562
A A		1562
B B		1565
1569
C C		1570
D D		1575
E E		1577
F F		1578
G G		1581
H H		1583
I, J I, J		1588
K K		1590
L L		1592
M M		1595
N N		1600
O O		1610
P P		1610
Q, R Q, R		1613
S S		1616
T T		1622
U, V U, V		1624
W W		1629
Y, Z Y, Z		1633

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