Ecological Systems of Colorado
Ecological systems are recurring groups of biological communities that are found in similar physical environments and are influenced by similar dynamic processes, such as fire or flooding. They are intended to provide a classification unit that is readily mapable, often from remote imagery, and readily identifiable by conservation and resource managers in the field. Ecological systems include both native, natural vegetation and non-native, human influenced vegetation.
As a mid-scale classification system, ecological systems are ideal for conservation assessment, inventory and mapping, land management, ecological monitoring, and species habitat modeling. Wetland condition assessment methods developed by CNHP and vegetation maps created for the National Park Service are based on the ecological systems classification, with metrics specific to certain systems.
Data behind the map of Colorado ecological systems shown below was developed by the LANDFIRE Program and NatureServe. For readability, the ecological systems in Colorado have been grouped by dominant species or physiognomy. The map is based on a model of ecological system distribution. While it accurately portrays the patterns of ecological systems across Colorado, the model may not be precise at a fine scale for all locations. In addition, some systems, especially wetlands, do not occur in patches big enough to show at the state scale.
Ecological System Descriptions
CNHP has developed detailed descriptions for the ecological systems in Colorado. Funding for the development of these documents was provided in part by The Nature Conservancy, Environmental Protection Agency, Bureau of Land Management, and U.S. Forest Service.
Identify an ecological system using this a 2-page flow chart or the individual keys to find Upland or Wetland and Riparian ecological systems.Right-click to download.
Below are links to Ecological System Descriptions:
The ecological system classification was developed by NatureServe. For more information, please visit:
- NatureServe’s webpage on ecological systems
- NatureServe Explorer
