Network Directory

NatureServe’s overall mission is to work in partnership with Network Programs to manage and distribute authoritative information critical to the conservation of biological diversity across North America.  

NatureServe advances the goals of both individual Network Programs, and the Network as a whole by: developing standard methodologies and information systems that promote consistent, high-quality biological conservation information among all Network Programs; developing global or range-wide species and ecological community data; developing national and international ecological community classifications; promoting the use of data developed by the Network Programs; promoting and advocating for the Network Programs; identifying data gaps and seeking resources to address those gaps; and, in collaboration with the Network Programs, developing regional, national, and international projects that promote the improvement and use of data at multi-jurisdictional scales.  NatureServe manages an international database that includes species location data from the Network Programs from across Canada and the United States.   

Below are resources that we hope will help you engage with NatureServe and other Network Programs and should be relevant to both new and existing staff. If there are things you think should be added please reach out to Shara Howie, NatureServe’s Director of Network Partnerships and Data. Also below are email links for key staff and teams that lead specific areas of our work. 

Your engagement with the NatureServe Network is crucial to achieving our collective conservation mission! 

Thank you! 

Getting the Big Picture

To get you oriented to NatureServe and how it works collaboratively to support your program and other programs in the network please visit the NatureServe website – we are always adding new content.

Network Programs are located throughout Canada and the U.S. that act as a clearinghouse for biodiversity data for their jurisdiction and perform other services to support local biodiversity conservation. Network Programs are Constituent Members of NatureServe when they are: (1) paying NatureServe annual membership dues, (2) following NatureServe Network approved data standards and methods, (3) sharing data with NatureServe and external parties, and (4) participating in NatureServe Network coordination and governing efforts.

Recommended Web Pages

• Overview of the NatureServe Network & Link to Network Directory: The NatureServe Network

• List of NatureServe staff and Board Members: Who's Who at NatureServe

• StoryMap of Our Impact: Our Impact

• Overview of our Focus: Our Work

Data and Methodology Training  

For 50 years, NatureServe and its partner Network Programs have been developing and refining, measurable science-based standards and methods that guide how we collect, document, and use our data to inform decision-making. Please visit our NatureServe Core Methodology web page that includes a link to our Methodology & Guidelines publications and documents. NatureServe is rolling out a variety of training resources and opportunities outlined below.   

• Data Use Training outlines NatureServe methods and data and were developed for external users of NatureServe data but provides a good overview of the NatureServe Network’s work.  

• The Core Methodology Training (CMT) site, includes links to pre-recorded training and a summary of new offerings under development. This web page includes a survey where you can provide input on the type of training resources most needed. 

• Field-based CMT will be offered as part of Network Program Regional Meetings. See the regional meeting schedule here: 2025-2026 Network Regional Meetings.docx. Details will be added to the CMT site as they become available.  

Biotics Training Materials  

Biotics 5 | NatureServe is an integrated, web-enabled platform for tabular and spatial data management. Used by the NatureServe Network, it encapsulates our shared methodology and data standards, supporting standardized, high quality data. The following are training resources to support Network Programs in the use of Biotics.  

• There is a Tutorial available in the Biotics Pilot system (login credentials can be found in the file attached to here). 

• There are Biotics Training Webinars on various topics, according to your needs. 

• Contact Whitney Weber by emailing biotics@natureserve.org to set up a customized training for your program. 

• Pre-recorded online training modules are available here: NatureServe Core Methodology | NatureServe 

Data Exchange Alerts Workbench Training  

A huge strength of our data is that fact that we have tools and processes that support the synchronization of this data across the Network including taxonomic and rank data. The Data Exchange Alerts Workbench is one of those tools.  

If you are involved in your program’s data exchange process, please visit the Biotics Online Help page for an overview of the Biotics Data Exchange Alerts Workbench that includes a short video introduction at the top of the page. If your program is interested in setting up a walk-through of the workbench (to support processing significant global and national data updates in Biotics) contact the Science Information Management team at biotics@natureserve.org. 

Conservation Status Assessment Ranking Training  

One of the most important data products developed by the NatureServe Network is our NatureServe Conservation Status Assessments or “Ranks”, and our Conservation Rank Assessment Tool (formerly the “rank calculator”) that encapsulates our ranking methodology. NatureServe conservation assessment ranks are utilized by federal and state agencies, and many industries for prioritizing species conservation efforts.  The following are resources that support the use of NatureServe conservation status assessment methodologies and tools.  

• There are two methodology documents and an excel rank assessment tool available for download. 

• Biotics facilitates the ranking process with a built-in rank assessment tool. Biotics Help provides guidance on some aspects of ranking. 

• Contact Amanda Eberly by emailing biotics@natureserve.org if you would like to request rank assessment tool training. 

• A new Online training module and live online sessions will be available here: NatureServe Core Methodology | NatureServe 

Instructions for Updating the Network Directory  

• Create a new NatureServe Network member profile on our main website by going to: https://www.natureserve.org/user/profile  
• Once an account is set up, there's a secondary step to associate yourself with a Network Program (this is important for getting on “Network only” emails, such as Network Topic Call announcements): go to https://www.natureserve.org/network-member-profile, log in if needed, select “Network Member Profile” and pick the appropriate option from the Member Program drop-down.  
• The directory has self-service functionality, and you can update your information at any time by logging in here.  
• If an individual has left your program please email nicole_iturralde@natureserve.org, and request this person be deleted from the network directory. 

Network SharePoint Site 

We also have a Network SharePoint site where many Network related documents are stored including the type of documents listed below. If you need access to SharePoint please email cliff_alton@natureserve.org, after you have set up an account on the Network Directory using the steps outlined in the section above.  

• There are lots of useful documents in the US Section SharePoint Drive: US Section Council - Home including: 
  • Document on working relationship & commitments between NatureServe and the Network: NatureServe Network Commitment_Final.pdf 
  • Network Categories: NatureServe Membership Overview 2024.docx 
  • Section Council Meeting Minutes: https://natureserve01.sharepoint.com/teamsites/US_Sect_Council/Meeting%20Minutes/Forms/AllItems.aspx 
  • Regional Calls & Meetings: 05. Regional Meetings 
  • Network Health Surveys: 06. Network Health Assessments 
  • Historical Documents: 09. Network History 
• Also sign up to participate in network-focused communities and team sites here: Network Communities - Home, Team Sites - Home 

Network Calls 

Below is a summary of the various types of network calls that are held.  

• U.S. Section Calls   
  • Purpose: For Network Program leads and NatureServe senior managers to share information and discuss high priority topics identified by the U.S. Section Council members and NatureServe executive staff.  
  • Timing/Format: First Wednesday of each month @1pm eastern. Every other month is a 90 minute call, and other months are 30 minutes calls. Email shara_howie@natureserve.org or contact your Section representatives (Member_terms 2000 - Current (Authoritative).xlsx) to suggest a topic for these calls, or provide other input on improving these calls. Ideas welcome! 
• U.S. Regional Coordinator Calls 
  • Purpose: For Network Program leads to provide a venue for more informal discussions on high priority topics in the region and provide individual program updates.  
  • Timing/Format: Variable, Email shara_howie@natureserve.org or your Section representatives (Member_terms 2000 - Current (Authoritative).xlsx) to be added to these calls 
• iNaturalist Calls 
  • Purpose: For iNaturalist staff and NatureServe Network staff to meet about uses of iNaturalist, updates on iNaturalist development, and improving collaboration in support of shared conservation goals. 
  • Timing/Format: Quarterly (May, August, November, Feb) @ 3pm eastern, email diana_soteropoulos@natureserve.org to be added to this call, or suggest agenda items.   
• Species Habitat Modeling Calls 
  • Purpose: For any Network Program staff involved in or interested in species habitat modeling to get updates on NatureServe and Network Program modeling efforts, and to discuss collaborative modeling issues.  
  • Timing/Format: First Tuesday every 2 months at 1pm eastern. Contact data_science@natureserve.org to be added to the call or suggest topics for the call.    
• Other Regional Call (Botany, Zoology, and Ecology) 
  • Contact your section’s regional representative to get information on other regional calls (Member_terms 2000 - Current (Authoritative).xlsx) 
• Canadian Board of Directors Calls 
  • Purpose: For NatureServe Canada staff, Canadian Network Programs, and their conservation partners to share updates and discuss priority projects and issues. 
  • Timing/Format: Second Wednesday of each month at 1:15pm eastern. Contact NatureServe Canada’s Director, Patrick Henry to get more information on this call.  
• Topic Calls 
  • Purpose: For all Network Program staff to learn about and engage in a topic of interest.  
  • Timing/Format: As requested by U.S. or Canadian Section Council 

Description of Software, Information, and Support Services (SISS) 

NatureServe provides information, standards, data exchange, and support services to all programs in the NatureServe Network. These services include maintaining species taxonomy and ecosystem classifications; assessing and maintaining global conservation status ranks; and developing and maintaining Network standards for conservation status ranking, climate change vulnerability assessment, observations, element occurrences, species habitat modeling, and range mapping.  

NatureServe also leads and coordinates Network ecological mapping efforts, including those based on the National and International Vegetation Classification, and operates NatureServe Explorer and Explorer Pro, along with APIs that support integration into Network Program and other partner web applications. 

Biotics, offered as a software-as-a-service, provides member programs with a common platform for consistent application of Network data standards. It also automates data exchange, significantly reducing the cost and effort required for both NatureServe and member programs. 

NatureServe also supports collaboration across the Network through regular calls, meetings, conferences, and other opportunities to share information, address common challenges, and advance shared priorities. 

SISS Basic: Information & Support + Tracker Biotics 

Required for all member programs. Supports information services, technical support, and data exchange. Includes Biotics Tracker, which provides tabular data management, conservation status assessment tools (rank calculator and RARECAT), taxonomic alerts, and automated data exchange services. 

Conducting data exchanges with non-Biotics programs requires significantly more effort for both NatureServe and the member program. The SISS Basic fee helps offset, but does not fully cover, these additional costs. For this reason, we encourage all programs to adopt Biotics software at the Tracker or higher level to support efficient taxonomic alignment and other data updates.  

SISS Standard: Information & Support + Standard Biotics 

SISS Standard includes the full Biotics software suite, including Mapper spatial data management tools as well as all features included in Tracker. 

SISS Premium: Information & Support + Premium Biotics 

SISS Premium includes the full Biotics software suite described under Standard Biotics. In addition, the Premium tier provides access to advanced integration and strategic support services. SISS Premium is designed for programs with more complex operating environments, which may include public-facing systems that require advanced integration; automated workflows; complex reporting environments; and higher service availability requirements.  

Description of Membership Levels (SISS) 

Basic Constituent Membership  

Basic Constituent Members have sufficient resources and mandate to adhere to Natural Heritage Methodology standards and methods. Basic constituent membership in NatureServe conveys the following privileges and responsibilities. 

Member Privileges 

• Serve as the principal node for their jurisdiction 

• Receive scientific and technical support in the application of NatureServe methods and technologies.  

• Receive updated national and global-level data from NatureServe 

• Authorized to use NatureServe Biotics data management software (subject to additional subscription fees) and have access to training and support opportunities 

• Invited to contribute to the evolution of NatureServe Network methods and technologies 

• Recognized in the NatureServe Annual report, on the NatureServe website and in other NatureServe marketing materials 

• Opportunities to participate in collaborative projects and work groups 

• Eligible to vote in membership elections of Section Council members and changes in by-laws 

• Eligible to serve on regional councils and committees 

• Receive assistance with program development, marketing, recruitment, and lobbying 

Member Responsibilities 

• Support NatureServe’s objectives of improving decision-making by developing and disseminating credible, objective biodiversity data, including contributing data to support regional and national aggregated data products.  

• Make data available for legitimate conservation purposes in a manner consistent with protecting the ecological resources under consideration. 

• Develop high-quality data using NatureServe standards and methods. 

• Participate in regular exchange of element, element occurrence (EO), and observation data with NatureServe as guided by the terms documented by each member program in the Data Provider Portal. 

• Contribute to the evolution of standards, methods, and technologies.  

• Strive to meet NatureServe benchmark data standards. 

• Pay dues at the level established by the NatureServe Board and Network Membership Committee. 

• Link NatureServe’s home page and other online resources (e.g., Explorer and Explorer Pro) to local program websites and communications to highlight your program’s connection to NatureServe and the broader Network.  

• Participate in Network training, events, marketing, and communication (e.g., Network Newsletter, Annual Report, etc.). 

Basic Membership Level Benefits
Benefit	Details
Registration Discounts	Eligible for discounted Network Member Registration for BWB and Trainings (discounted from non-member rates)

Leadership Constituent Membership  

Leadership Constituent Members have sufficient resources and motivation to contribute to the development of tools and methods beyond the needs of their host institution and serve as strong proponent for NatureServe within and beyond their home jurisdiction. Leadership Constituent Membership conveys all the privileges and responsibilities of Basic Constituent Membership, plus the following responsibilities and incentives to facilitate a leadership role in the organization. 

Responsibilities 

• Actively contributes to development of standards, methodologies, and technologies.  

• Actively contributes to sharing innovations with other members. 

• Actively contributes to the life of the Network through service such as Councils, committees, hosting conferences, instructing at trainings, or joint projects. 

Leadership Membership Level Benefits
Benefit	Details
Registration Discounts	Eligible for discounted Network Member Registration for BWB and Trainings (discounted from non-member rates)
Recognition	Recognition on NatureServe’s website as a “Leadership Level Network Program”

Sustaining Constituent Membership  

Sustaining Constituent Membership represents a member institution’s commitment to the goals and mission of NatureServe, and support for the broader Network by actively seeking ways to contribute to and strengthen the Network. Sustaining Constituent Membership conveys all of the privileges, responsibilities, and incentives available to Basic and Leadership Constituent Members, plus additional benefits at NatureServe sponsored events as follows.  

Sustaining Membership Level Benefits
Benefit	Details
Registration Discounts	Eligible for discounted Network Member Registration for BWB and Trainings (discounted from non-member rates) + 1 free registration
Recognition	Recognition on the NatureServe website and at BWB and other events as a “Sustaining Level Network Program”

Membership Dues 

Invoices for Membership Dues go out each year in March and contribute to a pool of unrestricted funding that can be used to support things like central data development, methodology advances, data exchange, and network support (regional and section calls and meetings). NatureServe is looking into bundling Membership Dues with Biotics Dues to reduce transaction costs for both Network Programs and NatureServe. For questions about your dues level contact you NatureServe representative. For questions about your invoice contact Yukie Shiromizu at: ar@natureserve.org.    

Environmental Review Tool 

NatureServe has developed an Environmental Review Tool (ERT) that can be customized for Network Programs to integrate Biotics and other data and reflect the environmental review, and approval processes required within your jurisdiction. Contact Elyzabeth Earnley if you are interested in setting up an ERT system for your jurisdiction. For questions about your invoice contact Yukie Shiromizu at: ar@natureserve.org.    

NatureServe Membership & SISS Summary - 2026

NatureServe membership provides access to shared data, tools, and support services that empower the Network to work together to produce consistent, high-quality biodiversity data products across the U.S. and Canada. 

The fee schedule and description of services for each tier of Network Membership Dues and Software, Information, and Support Services (SISS) for FY 2026–FY 2031 are shown below. Fees are set by the NatureServe Board Membership Committee, which includes both NatureServe and Network staff. All amounts are in USD and reflect a 6% increase every two years. Member programs must participate at the Basic level or higher for both membership dues and SISS fees. Fees may be invoiced together or separately. 

Member Dues & Fee Categories*	FY 2026	FY 2027	FY 2028	FY 2029	FY 2030	FY 2031
Software, Information, and Support Services (SISS) Fee
SISS Basic Information & Support + Tracker Biotics	$8,000	$10,000	$10,600	$10,600	$11,236	$11,236
SISS Standard Information & Support + Standard Biotics	$20,000	$20,000	$21,200	$21,200	$22,472	$22,472
SISS Premium Information & Support + Premium Biotics Biotics***	$25,000	$25,000	$26,500	$26,500	$28,090	$28,090
Network Membership Dues
Basic Dues	$2,100	$2,100	$2,226	$2,226	$2,360	$2,360
Leadership Dues	$3,150	$3,150	$3,339	$3,339	$3,540	$3,540
Sustaining Dues	$5,250	$5,250	$5,565	$5,565	$5,899	$5,899