Natural Areas Association (NAA) is an association of scientists and practitioners focused on the management of ecologically significant natural landscapes with the intent to protect biodiversity for current and future generations. Natural Areas News is just one of the ways NAA shares current events, reliable science, emerging challenges, best practices, and achievements of those who work daily to preserve natural areas.

Photo courtesy of the USDA Forest Service

Biden-Harris Administration announces new steps for

climate resilience and

forest conservation

The USDA and the DOI announced actions to foster forest conservation, enhance forest resilience to climate change, and inform policymaking on ensuring healthy forests on federally managed lands. Learn More.

Photo courtesy of Robbin Moran

Rare parasitic plant Clustered Broomrape (Orobanche fasciculata) rediscovered on dunes over Lake Michigan

The Wisconsin DNR announced that a population of a rare parasitic plant was rediscovered by a volunteer. The Clustered Broomrape had not been observed for more than 44 years. Learn More.

Texas House Natural Resources Committee holds hearing on bill to create historic Texas land and water conservation fund

The Texas House Committee on Natural Resources heard testimonyy on two bills, HB 3165 and HJR 138, which would create the Texas Land and Water Conservation Fund. Learn More.

Photo courtesy of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Critical habitat designated for rare Slickspot Peppergrass (Lepidium papilliferum) in Idaho

After a review of scientific information and evaluation of public comments received on the proposed rule, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is designating critical habitat for Slickspot Peppergrass (Lepidium papilliferum). Learn More.

Photo courtesy of Hector Amezcua

This ridge is considered a California ‘jewel.’ Here’s how tribes are trying to protect it

California conservationists, geologists, botanists, and a Yolo County Native American tribe are working to ensure Molok Luyuk receives federal protection and stewardship by its indigenous inhabitants. Learn More.

Photo courtesy of the USDA Forest Service

Fuel treatment effectiveness at the landscape scale: a systematic review of simulation studies

The risk of destructive wildfire on fire-prone landscapes with excessive fuel buildup has prompted the use of fuel reduction treatments to protect valued resources from wildfire damage. Learn More.

Photo courtesy of Janelle Alleman, USFWS

Wright’s Marsh Thistle (Cirsium wrightii) protected under Endangered Species Act

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service finalized regulations under the Endangered Species Act to protect the Wright’s marsh thistle, a plant from the sunflower family that is endemic to New Mexico. Learn More.