1: Conservation of biological diversity

Forests, and particularly native forests, support a substantial proportion of the planet’s biological diversity and terrestrial species. Biological diversity enables an ecosystem to respond to external influences, to recover after disturbance, and to maintain essential ecological processes. Human activities and natural processes can impact adversely on biological diversity by altering and fragmenting habitats, introducing invasive species, or reducing the population or ranges of species. Conserving the diversity of organisms and their habitats supports forest ecosystems and their ability to function, reproduce, and remain productive.

Associated Indicators

Species at risk of losing genetic variation and locally adapted genotypes

This indicator provides information on the number and distribution of forest-associated species at risk of losing genetic variation across their population. This erosion in genetic variation makes species less able to adapt to environmental change and more vulnerable to extinction. Some local populations with unique gene pools may also risk being swamped by larger populations introduced intentionally, by accident, or by natural processes.

Species diversity

Diversity of species (commonly called biodiversity) refers to the number and variety of species in a local area (alpha diversity), among associated areas (beta diversity), or across a region (gamma diversity). There are different indices of diversity, which usually include the relative abundance of individuals within a species as part of the diversity calculation.

Species' genetic diversity

Genetic diversity means the diversity of genes and alleles particular to species and populations of species. Protecting ecosystem diversity and biodiversity can protect genetic diversity, but it depends on the degree of protection. Protecting a diverse and large number of representative habitats, populations, and individuals is most likely to conserve genetic diversity of species.

Status of late-seral (old growth) forest types

To track the extent of forests that have characteristics of late successional old growth. Late-seral/old growth forests have unique ecological characteristics and are often biologically diverse. They are home to many species, including some that are listed as rare, threatened and endangered. Forest structure and composition with multi-layered canopy, diverse tree species, older dominant trees and woody debris can be tracked through FIA data.

The number of species at risk (California state listed threatened & endangered (T&E), rare, endemic, vulnerable, species of special concern and USFS and BLM managed indicator species).

Evaluate the number of forest and rangeland associated species that are at risk or in serious decline. Biological diversity is dependent on species richness and population levels. Change in species populations and distribution can be indications of problems with ecosystem health, productivity, stability and resilience. Declines in species that are listed as at-risk or special concern, such as rare, threatened, endangered or vulnerable, are indications that increased intervention or action may be required to ensure their survival.

USFS Management Indicator Species

The US Forest Service created lists of species that could aid forest scientists and managers in understanding impacts to biological features (species) and patterns from management activities and natural events like fire. These lists are publicly available for all National Forest and may be useful for others working in the same areas.