EPA Resources for Ecosystems Research

Researchers are developing sophisticated models and tools that are used to better understand and protect ecosystems and ecosystem services across the nation. These tools provide valuable data and information that can be used by communities, other agencies, and non-governmental organizations to make informed decisions on interactions dealing with ecosystems.

Related Resources

Decision Support Tools

• Eco-Health Relationship Browser
  An interactive tool that provides information about several of our nation's major ecosystems, the services they provide, and how those services, or their degradation and loss, may affect people.
• Final Ecosystem Goods and Services (FEGS) Scoping Tool
  The FEGS Scoping Tool provides a structured, transparent, and repeatable process for identifying and prioritizing stakeholders, the ways those stakeholders benefit from the environment, and the aspects of the environment necessary to realize those benefits. 
• EnviroAtlas
  A collection of interactive tools and resources that allows users to explore the many benefits people receive from nature, often referred to as ecosystem services.
• Sanitary Sewer Overflow Analysis & Planning (SSOAP) Toolbox
  A suite of computer software tools used for the quantification of RDII and help capacity analysis and condition assessment of sanitary sewer systems.
• Storm Water Management Model (SWMM)
  A dynamic hydrology-hydraulic-water quality simulation model.

Also see SMaRT, a searchable inventory of freely available models, tools, and databases from EPA's Office of Research and Development (ORD). Enter "ecosystem" or any other topic of interest in the search bar to find resources. 

Models and Databases

• National Ecosystem Services Classification System (NESCS) Plus
  The National Ecosystems Classification System-Plus (NESCS Plus, pronounced “nex-us plus”) is one such tool is a robust, step-by-step resource for tracing the links between natural ecosystems and human well-being. The main purpose of NESCS Plus is to serve as a framework for analyzing how changes to ecosystems impact human welfare. 
• Report on the Environment
  A presentation of the best available indicators of information on national conditions and trends in air, water, land, human health, and ecological systems that address 23 questions EPA considers mission critical to protecting our environment and human health.

Educational Resources

• EnviroAtlas formal and informal teaching resources
  EnviroAtlas includes ready-made lesson plans for every grade level, aligned with Next Generation and State Science Standards for each grade in the Appendix.

• Nature's Benefits: The Card Game
  Nature's Benefits: The Card Game is a fun way to teach important lessons about ecosystems.