To keep every cog and wheel is the first precaution of intelligent tinkering - Aldo Leopold
The Natural Heritage Program's work is focused on science-based conservation to protect Virginia's native plant and animal life and the ecosystems upon which they depend. Inventory scientists collecting data on natural communities and rare plants and animals, developing land conservation data and Internet mapping tools, and providing up-to-date information for timely conservation decisions is the foundation of our work. Our State Natural Area Preserve System provides long-term protection and outdoor recreation opportunities to some of the state and the planet's most ecologically important lands. This work, combined with our many conservation partners are all focused at ensuring the conservation of Virginia's common, and rare and endangered species and ecosystems. As a member of NatureServe, we contribute to an understanding and conservation of global biodiversity.
We thank you for visiting and hope you will find much to learn about Virginia's rich natural diversity and natural areas. Please come back and visit often.