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Natural Communities

Groups of plants and associated animals classified and described by their dominant biological and physical features.

We give conservation priority to types of natural communities that have limited distribution in the state and, of course, those with restricted global distribution (together considered to be Priority Types of Natural Communities for Conservation or “Priority Natural Communities”). We also identify Massachusetts’ best examples (exemplary occurrences) of more common community types that are otherwise Low-Priority for conservation or “Low-Priority Community types”: these are very important for conserving the biodiversity of the state.

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Natural Communities overview 

What you need to know

Natural Community Fact Sheets  Classification of Natural Communities  Natural Heritage GIS Resources  List of Endangered, Threatened, and Special Concern species 

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