What are the Core National Indicators?

Introduction to the Nationl Indicators Chapter

Note that the data published in the 2002 State of the Nation’s Ecosystems Report as well as the 2003 and 2005 Web-Only Updates have been superseded by the 2008 Report and thus should be used with caution. For the most recent data, purchase the 2008 Report from Island Press.

Can we report trends? Are there other useful reference points?

System Dimensions				Updated
	Ecosystem Extent	What is the area of the six major ecosystem types?	Some trends	2003
	Fragmentation and Landscape Patterns	How fragmented are natural lands into smaller, more isolated patches? How are developed lands intermingled within the natural landscape?	No data reported

Chemical and Physical Conditions				Updated
	Movement of Nitrogen	How much nitrogen leaves watersheds across the country, and how much is delivered to coastal waters?	Trends	2003 2005
	Chemical Contaminants	How frequently are chemical contaminants found in ecosystems, and how often do they exceed standards and guidelines for the protection of human health and aquatic life?	Current data only, federal standards and guidelines	2003

Biological Components				Updated
	At-Risk Native Species	How many native species are at different levels of risk of extinction?	Current data only
	Condition of Plant and Animal Communities	What fraction of U.S. lands and waters are highly managed or highly altered, and what levels of disturbance are found on natural/semi-natural lands?	No data reported
	Plant Growth Index	What are the trends in plant growth in different regions and different ecosystems?	Trends	2003 2005

Human Uses				Updated
	Production of Food and Fiber and Water Withdrawals	How are the quantities of key ecosystem-related commodity goods changing over time?	Trends	2003 2005
	Outdoor Recreation	How often do people take part in outdoor recreation activities, and which kinds?	Current data only	2003
	Natural Ecosystem Services	What other services, such as soil building and flood protection, are provided by natural ecosystems?	No data reported