Natural Resource Inventory

A Natural Resource Inventory (NRI) is a document that identifies and describes important natural features in a community or region. It includes maps and information about resources such as soils, streams, wetlands, forests, wildlife habitats, and other environmental features. Scenic, historic, and recreational resources may also be included.

The purpose of an NRI is to help communities make informed decisions about land use, conservation, and future development. By showing where natural resources are located and how they are connected, an NRI helps protect valuable environmental features while planning for growth.

Natural resources are materials and features found in nature that support life and provide benefits to people and wildlife. Examples include water, soil, forests, wetlands, streams, plants, animals, minerals, and clean air. These resources are important for healthy ecosystems, recreation, agriculture, and community well-being.

For a Natural Resource Inventory (NRI), natural resources are the environmental features that are identified, mapped, and described to help communities understand, protect, and manage them.

Cultural resources are places, features, and assets that reflect a community's history, traditions, and identity. They may include historic buildings, archaeological sites, parks, scenic views, trails, recreational areas, and landmarks that are important to local residents.

In a Natural Resource Inventory (NRI), cultural resources are often identified alongside natural resources because they contribute to a community's character, quality of life, and sense of place.