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Biological Diversity refers to the variety of species and genotypes that occur in a region. The objective of any land management must include the maintenance and enhancement of biological diversity. Management for the maintenance of biological diversity must be based on the knowledge of the existing diversity of speci3es, their habitat requirements, and the effects of management activities on their behavior. Enhancement of biol diversity involves restoration of habitat for existing species and the reintroduction of extirpated species in some situations. It is essential that management for biological diversity start with any rare, threatened or endangered species. Specific management plans must be developed to secure the maintenance of these species. The purpose of the exercise is to introduce you to a procedure for discovering the presence of rare, threatened or endangered species in an area and to develop some general guidelines for the management of these species.

Overview of the exercise:

This exercise will include the following steps:

1. Each team will be provided with a CNDDB overlay for USGS Quad Sheets in the Tahoe Basin.
2. Each team will select an animal.
3. Teams will review the status of the animal n the CNDDB "Element Occurrence Report".
4. Use library resources, or web references or talk to local wildlife biologists to determine the taxonomic classification of the animal, habitat requirements, home range size, migratory behavior, response to disturbance, breeding season, nesting habits, and natural history of the animal yu have chosen that is relevant to management of the species. Also Identify any gaps in our knowledge of the species.
5. Plan a reconnaissance of the area to determine, if possible, the actual presence or absence of the species.

1. The plan should include the season of field survey
2. field methods of reconnaissance (direct observation, id. tracks, identification of signs, etc)
3. Area covered and specific habitats to be searched

Each team will present an oral report covering their evaluation of the CNDDB and their management guidelines. Reports should include 5 - 6 minutes of Biology and Natural History, 5 - 6 minutes explanation of your reconnaissance, 5 - 6 minutes of management guidelines, and leave 5 minutes for questions. Your entire oral report should be at least 18 minutes (including question/answer period) but no longer than 25 min.