Development of a multilevel Ecological Classification System for the state of Minnesota

Area of Science:

• Ecology
• Environmental Science
• Conservation Biology

Background:

• The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MNDNR) initiated the Ecological Classification System (ECS) in 1991.
• The ECS follows a hierarchical structure with six levels, aligning with the United States Forest Service model.
• Development involves an interdisciplinary team from multiple agencies, utilizing Geographic Information Systems (GIS).

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish a comprehensive, hierarchical Ecological Classification System (ECS) for Minnesota.
• To integrate existing data using GIS for state-wide ecological assessment.
• To develop and test management interpretations for the lower ECS levels.

Main Methods:

• Hierarchical classification system development with six levels.
• State-wide development of upper four ECS levels by an interdisciplinary group.
• Application of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for data integration.
• Cooperative classification and inventory for the lowest two levels (Ecological Land Type and Ecological Land Type Phase) on selected Land Type Associations (LTAs).

Main Results:

• The Province and Section levels (first two) of the ECS are completed.
• The Subsection level (third) is nearing completion.
• Work on the Land Type Association (LTA) level (fourth) commenced in January 1995.
• Classification and inventory for the two lowest levels were conducted on two LTAs within the Chippewa National Forest.

Conclusions:

• The Ecological Classification System (ECS) provides a framework for understanding Minnesota's ecosystems.
• The system's hierarchical structure facilitates scalable ecological assessment and management.
• Ongoing development and workshops aim to integrate ECS into practical natural resource management strategies.