Request Information

The Natural Heritage Program's BIOTICS data management system has become the standard reference for consultants, scientists, and planners who require accurate data on the location and condition of species and natural communities in North Carolina.

The two most common kinds of requests for information from the Natural Heritage Program are:

Site-specific requests: lists of rare species, natural communities, natural areas, and conservation managed areas within and near a specific location within North Carolina. You can do this yourself using the Data Explorer or NHP staff can perform a customized review.

Rare species requests: information about a rare plant or animal.

NOTE: Submitting a site-specific request initiates a customized search of the NHP database by staff. No field work is done on the site by NHP staff. The absence of records of natural heritage elements within or near a project area does not necessarily mean that they are not present. It may simply mean that the area has not been surveyed. The use of Natural Heritage Program data should not be substituted for actual field surveys.

To access online project review tools, log in to the Data Explorer. Note: an account, subscription, and training (for subscription administrators) is required.

Request a Site Review

To request a review of a specific site by NHP staff, please provide ALL of these items:

1. A completed information request form;
2. A cover letter that describes the proposed activity, including existing vegetation cover, structures at the site, and the type of data requested; and
3. A map with the project area clearly outlined.

Additional information that would be useful:

• A locator map showing the project location in relation to labeled major highways, rivers, creeks, and towns
• GIS shapefile of the project area
• Project boundary overlaid on a recent aerial photo
• Parcel identification number(s) for the project area

Spoonflower by Bruce Sorrie