North Carolinians enjoy a rich and diverse landscape. Agriculture, forestry, fisheries, tourism, and the pharmaceutical and chemical industries depend on the existence of a variety of plants and animals. The interaction of variety of plants, animals, and microorganisms, is necessary for water purification, soil regeneration, and absorption of wastes. The main threats to the state's plants and animals are habitat destruction and degradation. The protection and restoration of important habitat areas enable plants and animals to survive and replenish their numbers.
Biological diversity is a key factor in preserving our environment for future generations.
Our goals should include the protection, preservation and enhancement of biological diversity keeping in mind that species extinction is a natural process over time. To protect biodiversity, ecosystems must be considered. The inventory of these species and areas with their locations and status is called the Natural Heritage Biological and Conservation Database. The database is used to help establish priorities for protecting North Carolina's most significant natural areas. The Heritage Program also keeps a registry of exceptional public and private natural areas, and helps property owners find the best ways to manage their land.