Types of Natural Heritage Areas
A Biological Diversity Area 1) includes natural or human influenced habitat that harbors one or more occurrences of plants or animals recognized as state or national species of special concern; or 2) possesses a high diversity of species of plants and animals native to the county; or 3) supports a rare or exemplary natural community (assemblage of plants and animals), including the highest quality and least disturbed examples of relatively common community types.
A Landscape Conservation Area is a large contiguous area that is important because of its size, open space and habitats, and although including a variety of land uses, has not been heavily disturbed and thus retains much of its natural character.
An Other Heritage Area is consistently utilized for scientific monitoring of the environment, or other natural science studies or land regularly used by educational institutions, local environmental organizations, or general public for nature study or instruction.
How are Natural Heritage Areas Determined?
The Allegheny County Natural Heritage Inventory was completed in 1994 by the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy. This scientific study made a thorough search for plant and animal species and communities that are unique or uncommon in the County. It also identified areas important for general wildlife habitat, education and scientific study.
Although the Inventory used a proven methodology, it is best viewed as a preliminary report. Further investigation could reveal greater significance at a Natural Heritage Area or uncover a previously unidentified site. Unfortunately, some sites could be de-listed due to logging and construction.
Protecting Natural Heritage Areas
The Allegheny Land Trust protects Natural Heritage Areas by acquiring land and conservation easements. The Trust has established major wildlife preserves in Natural Heritage Areas along the Allegheny and Youghiogheny Rivers and is working to create more.
When ALT acquires land, it makes a commitment to care for it. ALT develops management plans in accordance with ecological principles and in consideration of community needs. ALT works with volunteers to plant trees in deforested areas, remove non-native species, prevent dumping, and much more.