Biodiversity Inventory

An Ecosystem and Conservation Framework

An ecosystem framework is based on natural systems (wetlands, lakes, streams, etc) and the conservation frameworks are the public vs. private, public land types and private zoning designations.  The value of an ATBI is greatest when performed within the context of ecosystems and designations of land conservation types.

Taxonomic Working Groups (TWIGS)

The basic inventory process will be performed by the TWIGs with guidance from the Science Committee. (see The User’s Guide to the Adirondack ATBI).   Each TWIG establishes field and laboratory protocols that are 1) Repeatable, 2) Performed in a standardized manner acceptable to the science community, 3) Performed at spatially and temporally referenced locations, 4) Focused on maximizing distribution and abundance information according to ecosystem and conservation framework, 5) Available to interested parties, and 6) identifies the appropriate manner in which citizens can become involved and the level of guidance needed. 

Spatially Referenced Database

A database that contains species names, locations, and images will permit the archival and analysis of the taxonomic diversity of the Adirondack Park.  Served as a digital database over the internet, state-of-the-art biological inventory data will be accessible.  GIS will be used for keeping an ongoing record of all collecting activities and for mapping the locations for species collections and will be use to identify over- and undercollected areas and compare more accessible to less accessible sites.

Connectivity with other ATBIs

ATBIs occur throughout the United States and in other countries.  Communication and coordination with these ATBIs will be beneficial to our ATBI support, field protocols, database management, and promotion of the value and benefits of ATBIs to humans.  One goal of the Adirondack ATBI will be to create and maintain open communication with other ATBIs and work collaboratively in a broader global sense to promote conservation of biological diversity.  The developing ATBI Alliance will serve in this capacity.