Idaho Natural Heritage Program

The Natural Heritage Program is the leading source of information in Idaho on the precise locations and conditions of at-risk species and threatened ecosystems.  Consistent standards for collecting and managing data allow information from multiple organizations to be shared and combined regionally, nationally, and internationally through the NatureServe network.

The Idaho Natural Heritage Program consists of five areas: Zoology , Botany, Biodiversity, Spatial Ecology, and Data Management.

• Zoology - The Zoology Program is responsible for obtaining information about the conservation status and needs of Idaho’s animals through collaborative partnerships, information sharing, and original research and study.
• Botany - The Botany Program is a joint effort between federal, state, and private partners. The unit collects, analyzes, maintains, and disseminates scientific information necessary for the management and conservation of Idaho's plant diversity. A core responsibility of this unit is to develop and implement an Idaho Plant Conservation Strategy to compliment the Idaho State Wildlife Action Plan.
• Biodiversity - The Wildlife Diversity Program works to include plant, animal, and systems ecology into conservation priorities in Idaho.  This program serves as technical lead for ongoing updates and revisions to the Idaho State Wildlife Action Plan. It also works to prioritize species and habitats for conservation.
• Data Management