Washington Title Image Large
© Pete Saloutos/Panoramic Images (Washington Title Image Large)

Washington Rare Species and Ecosystems

Overview

This data layer shows point representations of occurrences of rare plants and high-quality terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems in Washington.

Data Layer Description

Source

Washington Natural Heritage Program

What this data layer represents

This data layer shows point representations of occurrences of rare plants and high-quality terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems in Washington.

Location

a) Data encompasses the state of Washington.
b) Original element occurrence information was compiled at 1:24,000.

Description

The Washington Natural Heritage Program maintains a database of rare and imperiled species and plant communities for the state. The Element Occurrence (EO) records that form the core of the Natural Heritage database include information on the location, status, characteristics, numbers, condition, and distribution of elements of biological diversity using established Natural Heritage Methodology developed by NatureServe and The Nature Conservancy (TNC).

This layer DOES NOT include rare animals.  The points disappear when one zooms in to mask the precise location and provide a bit of protection for the rare taxa.

How to get the data layer

Washington Natural Heritage GIS data (polygonal) is available through the website at http://www1.dnr.wa.gov/nhp/refdesk/gis/wnhpgis.html .

How you might make use of this data layer

This data layer can be combined with other conservation priority data layers in the map viewer to show areas of high return for conservation efforts.  Use this layer to find out which rare species and/or high-quality ecosystems are located in a particular location.

How to get more information

The Washingington Natural Heritage website contains a wealth of information about the rare plants found in Washington, including publications, lists of rare plant species, and a rare plant guide.

Sample Map

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