In addition, the Nongame Program of the Wildlife Resources Commission has an assessment program. Endangered Species North Carolina has separate laws to protect plants and animals. The law protecting animals covers all vertebrates and selected invertebrates. Listing is based on scientific and economic data. The law does not require recovery plans, critical habitat designation or agency consultation.
Violations constitute a misdemeanor.
The Plant Protection and Conservation Act lists plants based on scientific and economic data. No other protection mechanisms exist. A few state agencies plan and manage their lands in a biologically sustainable manner. The Wildlife Resources Commission manages about two million acres of land for hunting and fishing, though not for biodiversity. In addition, the State Parks System is managed to preserve representative examples of the state's natural heritage.