Natural Diversity Data Base Areas

Example of Natural Diversity Data Base Areas

Description

Natural Diversity Data Base Areas represent known locations, both historic and extant, of state listed species and significant natural communities. State listed species are those listed as Endangered, Threatened or Special Concern under the Connecticut Endangered Species Act (Connecticut General Statutes, Section 26-303). Some examples of significant natural communities in Connecticut include Acidic Atlantic White Cedar Swamps, Sand Barrens and Poor fens. This dataset represents over 100 years worth of field observations, scientific collections, and publications. The data have been compiled from a variety of sources and in most cases do not represent a comprehensive or state-wide survey. Sources include state biologists, university students and professors, conservation organizations and private landowners.

 

Natural Diversity Data Base Areas are a generalized representation of species and community locations. The exact locations and species names have been masked to protect sensitive species from collection and disturbance. Natural Diversity Data Base Areas are represented as polygon areas and mapped for use at 1:24,000 scale (1 inch = 2,000 feet). This dataset is updated every six months and reflects information that has been submitted and accepted up to that point.

Purpose

The Natural Diversity Data Base Areas were developed to help state agencies and citizens comply with the State Endangered Species Act. Under the Act, state agencies are required to ensure that any activity authorized, funded or performed by the state does not threaten the continued existence of endangered or threatened species. Applicants for certain state and local permits may be required to consult with the Department of Environmental Protection's Natural Diversity Data Base (NDDB) as part of the permit process.

 

Natural Diversity Data Base Areas are intended to be used as a pre-screening tool to identify potential impacts to state listed species. To use this data for site-based endangered species review, locate the project boundaries and any additionally affected areas on the map. If any part of the project is within a NDDB Area; or overlapping a lake, pond, or wetland that has a NDDB Area; or is within ½ mile upstream or downstream of a NDDB Area, then the project may have a conflict with a species or natural community. In the case of a potential conflict, a written Environmental Review Request should be made to the Natural Diversity Data Base for further review.

Use Limitations

This information does not include Natural Area Preserves, designated wetland areas or wildlife concentration areas. Because of the limited attribute information and buffered locations, this dataset is not suitable for species distribution information or analysis. Use of this generalized product is limited to a pre-screening tool and follow up with the DEP is required for more specific information. Some of the information used to define the Natural Diversity Data Base area boundaries is based on features appearing on or other information derived from 1:24,000-scale USGS topographic quadrangle maps. Consequently, use caution when displaying the Natural Diversity Data Base areas at map scales larger and more detailed than 1:24,000 scale (1 inch = 2,000 feet).

Dataset Information

Additional Documentation

Originators

GIS Data Download

CT.gov Logo CT DEP UConn CLEAR UConn College of Agriculture and natural Resources