Terrestrial Ecoregions (TNC)
Overview
TNC terrestrial ecoregions can be used as a framework for setting conservation priorities and identifying unique places in need of conservation attention.
Data Layer Description
Source
What this data layer represents
This layer contains Global Ecoregions, Major Habitat Types, Biogeographical Realms and The Nature Conservancy Terrestrial Assessment Units as of January 10, 2008, with some modifications. Specifically, the Great Lakes ecoregion, as mapped by The Nature Conservancy has been divided into the Northern Great Lakes ecoregion and the Southern Great Lakes ecoregion based on ECOMAP 2006 boundaries.
Location
The contiguous United States
Map scale: roughly 1: 1,000,000
Description
Developed originally by Olson, D. M. and E. Dinerstein (2002), Bailey (1995) and Environment Canada (Wiken, 1986), these data layers were modified by The Nature Conservancy (TNC) to be used in its Biodiversity Planning exercises in the process known as Ecoregional Assessments. Several Ecoregions were modified from the originals by TNC staff developing the aforementioned assessments. The modifications are based on ecological, bio-physical and political rationales; most changes are noted in the accompanying documentation (attributes). Ecoregions in Canada and Mexico were modified mainly at the border with US territory, where TNC modified-Bailey (1995) ecoregions crossed over the country boundaries and the Olson, D. M. and E. Dinerstein (2002) and (Wiken, 1986) were replaced where the TNC modified-Bailey (1995) overlayed them. This layer was split from the terrestrial ecoregional assessment layer in June 2008.
How to get the data layer
Visit TNC's Conservation GIS Data hub
How you might make use of this data layer
TNC terrestrial ecoregions can be used as a framework for setting conservation priorities and identifying unique places in need of conservation attention.
How to get more information
Contact TNC's Worldwide Office data manager View the detailed metadata
