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Biological Diversity Assessment, South Central Colorado And North • Central New Mexico August, 1994 Setting and scope The assessment, focusing on the Rio Grande National Forest in south central Colorado, is composed of three efforts which were done concurrently but are interconnected. The assessment was based on the National Hierarchical Framework of Ecological Units using the "section" that the Rio Grande Forest was located in. A fine filter assessment was done to gather information on threatened, endangered, and sensitive species of wildlife and plants. Information was also gathered on noxious weeds. The first layer of information that was gathered was data on file with the Colorado and New Mexico Natural Heritage Programs. This information was supplemented by conducting interviews with various individuals from many different agencies and the additional information given to the Natural Heritage Program to be added to the data base. A coarse filter assessment is underway using satellite imagery to develop information on distribution and abundance of vegetative composition, and if possible, structure for the coniferous forests. Information on grasslands, croplands, shrublands, deciduous forests, and coniferous forests is being developed. This is work is being done by staff at Colorado State University. Range of Natural Variability information has been collected for the Rio Grande area. This was largely done through literature review and searching out historical records. The purpose of this effort is to try to piece together a picture of how the various ecosystems developed with regard to composition, structure and pattern and to understand the disturbances that influenced the vegetative communities. An independent team of experts will also review the work and provide advise on improving the quality of the document. Issues/problems being As a part of the Forest Plan revision effort for the Rio Grande National Forest, addressed this biological diversity assessment has been undertaken to help address various topics associated with the issue of biological diversity. The objectives are to test a process and to provide the Forest with additional biological information that they may not have had available without such an effort. Participants USDA Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Regional Office, and Rio Grande National Forest. Colorado State University. The Colorado Division of Wildlife has provided satellite imagery. Sources of technical input Brief history and present status Funding sources Colorado State University. USDA Forest Service. See above Cash provided by the Forest Service. Satellite imagery provided by Colorado Division of Wildlife.