Preserving movement pathways for native species and linkages between areas of intact natural habitat is key to mitigating the current biodiversity crisis. At the same time, protecting the highest quality agricultural lands is similarly critical to our long-term food security. This map explores the role of agricultural lands across the U.S. in supporting the movement of species and connecting high-quality habitats.

We draw on new spatial data on agricultural land cover and management intensity to identify agricultural areas that are likely to provide important connectivity benefits to native species. By combining the connectivity value of agricultural lands with information on ag land quality and sustainability, this map can help landowners, conservation advocates, and agencies across the country identify conservation opportunities on agricultural lands that benefit both farmers and wildlife. Our provides details on how to use this tool for conservation planning.

A brief summary of our methods is available here.