Vegetation Mapping in the American Southwest - Conclusion & References

Conclusion

The USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program provides baseline ecological data for park resource managers, obtains data that can be examined in a regional and national context, and provides opportunities for future inventory, monitoring, and research activities. The use of the NVCS and the USGS-NPS vegetation mapping protocols facilitates effective resource stewardship by ensuring compatibility and widespread use of the information throughout the NPS, as well as by other federal and state agencies. A comprehensive set of vegetation maps for our national parks, including those in the American Southwest, is an invaluable tool for researchers, park managers, and anyone who hopes to deepen their understanding of the scope and diversity of our natural heritage.

References

Cover of Vegetation Classification and Mapping Report for Aztec Ruins National Monument.

Photo by J. Beren

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Prepared by Ben Gillock, Patty Valentine-Darby, and Anne Cully, 2009.