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Classification of Natural Communities
The
classification of the natural communities of Massachusetts was written
in order to provide a basis for discussing and conserving the diversity
of our types of natural communities and the species they support. The
primary aim is to describe the natural communities of conservation interest,
while also including all the types in the state.
This classification divides natural community types into three major sections: Terrestrial, Palustrine, and Estuarine. Because of the total size of the classification document, each community type is available individually. An additional section with the Introduction, overall Table of Contents, and References is included separately. The classification is provided as PDF files. To view these files you will need the free Adobe Acrobat Reader.
The preferred citation for the Classification of the Natural Communities of Massachusetts is:
Swain, P.C. and J.B. Kearsley. 2011. Classification of the Natural
Communities of Massachusetts. Version 1.4. Natural Heritage & Endangered
Species Program, Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife. Westborough,
MA. URL: http://www.mass.gov/dfwele/dfw/nhesp/natural_communities/
natural_community_classification.htm
- Table
of Contents, Introduction, and References
- Appendices,
Lists of Community Types with Rank by Rank
- Terrestrial Communities
- Palustrine Communities
- Estuarine Communities
To report natural community occurrences, click on the links below to download Natural Community Field Forms and their accompanying instructions.