The State of the Nation’s Ecosystems

About the Project The State of the Nation's Ecosystems is America's most comprehensive report on the condition of our lands, waters, and living resources. The report provides essential information to framers of local, state and national environmental policy as well as business leaders and the general public. Its broad nonpartisan support and strong scientific basis allow decision-makers to focus on the best course of action – rather than spending time debating the condition of the nation's environment. The unique strength of this project derives from its focus on ecosystem indicators – agreed upon by hundreds of experts from universities, government agencies, corporations, and environmental organizations – presented without prescriptive recommendations. Funded by the federal government, foundations, and corporations, the report also highlights key gaps in data that must be filled to allow a complete picture of ecosystem conditions. Learn more...

Current Activities

The State of the Nation's Ecosystems project will publish its second full report in 2008. In preparation for the next release we are working to improve many of the report's indicators. Please explore the links below to learn about the topics and indicators we are investigating.

• Non-native Species
• Biological Community Condition
• Landscape Pattern
• Air Quality
• Data Gaps and Monitoring Infrastructure
• Change in Stream Flows
• Ecosystem Services
• Carbon Storage
• Harmful Algae

Indicator Updates

In the five year interim period between major reports, we provide web-only updates for indicators with newly available data.

2005 Update

2003 Update

Project Management

The State of the Nation's Ecosystems staff and advisors are committed to excellence and openness in reporting indicators of ecosystem condition. Please follow the links below to learn about our process and progress.

Design Committee

Annual Reports & Periodic Updates

Strategic Plan: 2002-2007 (.pdf)

Project Funding