BLM-MT, Natural Resources Data Services and Database Development

Background: Ongoing survey activities by a variety of entities in Montana and western North & South Dakota generate substantial new information each year on the distribution and status of Montana natural resources including Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Special Status species and their habitats. Due to the dynamic nature of species and habitats and the information documenting them, it is necessary to assemble information on an ongoing basis, integrate it into databases by creating new records and updating existing records, thoroughly quality control all data, and disseminate the resulting information through web applications and internet map services that can be consumed by local BLM Geographic Information System (GIS) users. In addition to maintaining distributional data on species and habitats, new information on species’ taxonomy, biology, ecology, and management also needs to be gleaned from surveys and literature and made available to BLM biologists, managers and planners. State (and global) status ranks must be reviewed in light of new information, and ranks modified where appropriate to reflect changes in knowledge and/or species populations and habitat conditions. These ranks need to be made readily available where they can be used to inform Sensitive Species and Community lists maintained by the BLM State Office. Finally, consolidation and maintenance of data on conservation easements, managed areas, and conservation land designations in Montana, form a critical base map for land management and conservation planning by the BLM. This information needs to be made readily available through web applications through internet map services that can be consumed by local GIS users, and data downloads. Data on sensitive biological resources will be consistently managed in a reliable statewide data system that provides comprehensive information for both BLM lands and surrounding public and private lands and that this information is readily accessible to the public. b. Objectives: This project continues support for the ongoing assembly, integration, maintenance, and dissemination of statewide information/data on fish/wildlife/plant habitat, special status plants and animals and habitat, and public lands for use by the public and other interested parties. c. Public Benefit: The Special Status species list is available to the public. The information gleaned from this list helps to protect the Nation’s natural, cultural and heritage resources.