The Gap Analysis Program: A Proactive Approach to Biodiversity Conservation

Authors

John D. Gerlach II, North Carolina State UniversityFollow
G Jason Jolley, University of North Carolina at Chapel HillFollow

Volume

46

Issue

4

Abstract

This article introduces Extension professionals to the U.S. Geological Survey's Gap Analysis Program (GAP). GAP seeks to inform the natural resource policy process by providing land cover, stewardship, and species distribution data to decision makers. GAP data may be used to make land use decisions at different geographic levels. GAP aims to address biodiversity conservation in a proactive manner, paying unique attention to the protection of common species and their habitats. Extension professionals may also find GAP data helpful in education and outreach programs designed to inform the public of the role individuals can play in biodiversity maintenance.

Creative Commons License

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Recommended Citation

Gerlach, J. D., & Jolley, G. (2008). The Gap Analysis Program: A Proactive Approach to Biodiversity Conservation. The Journal of Extension, 46(4), Article 27. https://tigerprints.clemson.edu/joe/vol46/iss4/27