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 your trusted resource for current events, reliable science, conservation success, emerging challenges, best practices, and achievements of those who work daily to preserve natural areas.

On his final day in office, Governor Murphy signed the Invasive Species Management Act into law. The law prohibits the sale, distribution, import, export, and propagation of certain invasive plant species without a permit. The law also reestablishes a permanent New Jersey Invasive Species Council in statutory law.

Western Pennsylvania Conservancy (WPC) announced they acquired a 164-acre property featuring forests, wetlands and swamps. The land has been added to the now 400-acre South Branch French Creek Conservation Area. Colcom Foundation, the Richard King Mellon Foundation, and private donors made the acquisition possible.

Courtesy of Patrick Donnelly/Center for Biological Diversity

A recent study found that 2,204 species across the United States should be considered for protection under the Endangered Species Act. Using data maintained by NatureServe, researchers concluded that far more species than the 1,682 currently protected may need safeguards.

Photo courtesy of Ashley Cole-Wick

NAA members are invited to a roundtable discussion on February 17, 2026, to discuss ways conservation organizations can strive for a balanced approach to artificial intelligence. Participants will explore how organizations can identify meaningful applications, evaluate outcomes using guiding principles, supported by timely, curated resources. JOIN NAA!

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