Somerset County
The Somerset County Natural Heritage Inventory is complete
and the report is now available.
A County Natural Heritage Inventory is designed to identify and map important biotic (living) and ecological resources. The study investigated plant and animal species and natural communities that are unique or uncommon in Somerset County. It also explored areas important for general wildlife habitat, education and scientific study.
The inventory does not confer protection on any of the areas listed here. It is however a tool for informed and responsible decision-making. Public and private organizations may use the inventory to guide land acquisition and conservation decisions. Local municipalities and the County may use it to help with comprehensive planning, zoning and the review of development proposals. Developers, utility companies and government agencies alike may benefit from access to this environmental information prior to detailed development plans being made.
The inventory is part of a statewide effort to document the living resources in the state. By knowing the significant resources in each county we can then know the most significant areas in the state.
Calendar
o The final advisory committee meeting was held on April 20, 2005 at the County Courthouse. The presentation of results was given by Rita Hawrot, Ecologist with Western Pennsylvania Conservancy, and rough copies of maps and sections of the report were distributed.
o Rita Hawrot gave a presentation at Audubon's Earth Day Adventure on April 23, 2005 at Summer's Best 2 weeks Camp at the Quemahoning Dam in Somerset County.
The Report
Download the complete Somerset County Natural Heritage Inventory (90.0 MB) or in parts:
Part 1 (11.1 MB) Part 2 (5.93 MB) Part 3 (3.91 MB)
Where to go for Copies
Aside from WPC, copies may be obtained from the Somerset County Planning Commission, 300 N. Center Avenue, Suite 540, Somerset, PA 15501. Phone: 814-445-1544.
Contact
For questions about the Somerset Co. Inventory, please contact:
Rita Hawrot
Ecologist
Western Pennsylvania Conservancy
209 Fourth Avenue
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
(412) 586-2319
rhawrot@paconserve.org