Using the Information System
The NCS, Nongame Conservation Section, data system makes possible a more objective identification and evaluation of important natural areas within the state. Inventory data can be used to locate and prioritize these lands for various protection methods, including fee simple acquisition, easement, conservation agreement, or land registry. Information from the GNHP databases has been used in Georgia''s Preservation 2000 and River Care 2000 land acquisition programs. In addition, it has supported protection efforts for rare species and natural communities by other agencies and conservation organizations. Information derived from the NCS is also useful in a number of related activities, including:
- Environmental Review - Planners can use NCS data to help evaluate the environmental impacts of various routing and siting options for development projects. Developers can then direct projects to the least sensitive lands, avoiding areas with rare or threatened elements.
- Research and Education - Scientists and educators can be made aware of unique research sites. As the NCS databases grow, geographical ranges of species and community types within the state will be estimated with greater accuracy.
