A natural community is an area that has experienced minimal human alteration. But when people spend time outdoors, in the woods or fields or along a stream, chances are they're passing through more than one natural community, sometimes resulting in a disturbance in the natural order. Understanding how these assemblages of plants, animals, insects, fish and reptiles co-exist can help preserve and protect the environment in which they live. We join Leif Richardson of the Vermont Non-game and Natural Heritage Program for a look at several natural communities in Niquette Bay State Park in Colchester.

• The Nature Conservancy -
  Vermont Chapter
• University of Vermont's School of
  Natural Resources
• The Vermont Agency of Natural Resources
• The Vermont Backyard Forest
  Stewardship Program

• Vermont Department of Fish & Wildlife
• Leif Richardson, Non-game & Natural
  Heritage Program: 802-241-3716
• Vermont Institute of Natural Science

Comments