|
PROGRAM
OVERVIEW |
|
Montana's Natural Heritage is a diverse resource for our citizens and economy, and is central to our quality of life. Good information is critical to maintain this valuable heritage as the state grows and develops. |
 |
|
| The Montana Natural Heritage Program is the state’s source for information on the status and distribution of our native animals and plants, emphasizing species of concern and high quality habitats such as wetlands. | ||
| The Natural Heritage Program is also part of a network of over 80 similar programs in states, provinces and nations throughout the Western Hemisphere, bringing to Montana the “big picture” information on the true status of species and habitats. Heritage specialists collect, verify and disseminate information to a broad community of users for many applications, including: |
||
| Preventing Species Listings... |
||
 |
Data assembled by the Natural Heritage Program have led to the “down-ranking” of many species once thought to be very rare, or considered for listing as Endangered Species. Fourteen plants were dropped as candidates for Federal listing when data showed that the plants were more widespread than previously thought. Likewise, accurate data on listed species are essential to determine when they can be de-listed. |  |
| Facilitating Environmental Assessment... |
|
| Heritage data are used by the private and public
sectors for mining, timber sales, subdivisions, utility and pipeline
corridors, oil and gas developments, and highway construction. Conflicts and unnecessary impacts are avoided because good data help developers identify sensitive species and areas early in the planning process. |
 |
| The War on Weeds... |
||
 |
One weed management consultant reported
that without the services of the Heritage Program
“…it would take at least 4 to 5 additional days to gather information for each project…” |
 |
| The Montana Natural Heritage is part
of the State Library’s Natural Resource Information System.
It is operated as a special program under the Office of the Vice
President for Research and Development at the University of Montana,
Missoula. For additional information, contact Susan Crispin, Director
at 444-3019 or email scrispin@mt.gov. |
