NHNM Zoologists are modeling habitat use by two pinyon-juniper Species At Risk, Pinyon Jay and Gray Vireo. Supported by the Department of Defense Legacy Resource Management Program, this project is investigating habitat use at the landscape, colony (Pinyon Jays)/territory (Gray Vireos), and nest scales at three DoD installations: New Mexico Army National Guard Camel Tracks Training Area, Kirtland Air Force Base, and White Sands Missile Range. This study of two species that differ in seasonal movements, social structure, and foraging habits, viewed at multiple scales and several installations, will provide a broad perspective on the management of pinyon-juniper woodlands for avian Species At Risk.

Natural Heritage New Mexico, in association with SWCA Environmental consultants, is working collaboratively with NMED Surface Water Quality Bureau  to develop a cutting-edge, rapid assessment methodology (RAM) for riverine wetlands of the Upper Rio Grande watershed that integrates functional assessments such as the Hydrogeomorphic Approach with Ecological Integrity Assessment.

More information on the NM RAM process

Natural Heritage Surveys for Prairie Dogs Using Remote Sensing

Since 2001, NHNM zoologist Kristine Johnson, GIS analyst Teri Neville, and their students have been surveying for prairie dog towns using digital aerial photography. This method is a rapid and economical method of surveying and monitoring these species of conservation concern across large landscapes and in areas with few roads.

More information on the prairie dog survey project