In celebration of Earth Day (April 22), we highlight the role that data on ecosystems, ecosystem services and biodiversity play in facilitating research, management and conservation of natural resources and the environment. The Ecosystems theme of Data.gov highlights interagency collaborations for sharing … Continued

Invasive species are plants, animals, or pathogens that are non-native (or alien) to an ecosystem and whose introduction causes or is likely to cause harm. Invasive species are considered the second greatest cause of biodiversity loss. Recognizing the threat that … Continued

This week the White House issued guidance for Federal agencies to develop and implement policies that promote consideration of ecosystem services and natural (green) infrastructure into their planning and decision-making. Ecosystem services, the benefits that ecosystems provide to humans and the environment, are critical … Continued

In 2015, the Multi-Resolution Land Characteristics Consortium (MRLC) released the latest edition of the Alaska National Land Cover Database (NLCD). It is the most comprehensive look at land-surface conditions of the state and shows the extent of land cover types from forests to urban areas. Derived from carefully calibrated observations of Landsat satellites … Continued

Following National Pollinator Week (June 15-21, 2015) and rollout of the Pollinator Research Action Plan we highlight and share the importance of pollinators including bees, birds, butterflies and bats in providing key ecosystem services. Nearly one out of every three bites of food we … Continued