Focus on Biodiversity | Albemarle County, VA

The term biodiversity (from “biological diversity”) refers to the variety of life in all of its forms and at all levels, from genes to ecosystems. Biodiversity includes not only species of plants and animals, but every form of life, including humans and tiny organisms like microbes and insects.

is important to most aspects of our lives, including basic needs of food, fuel, shelter, and medicine. It helps provide important natural services, such as pollination, climate regulation, water purification, and control of agricultural pests, as well as scenic value and support of our community’s health and well-being. Protecting biodiversity is important for these reasons, but also for potential benefits not yet known, such as new medicines. Each component of biodiversity – every plant, animal, and microbe – also has an intrinsic value, or inherent worth, independent of its value to people.

What We Do

Local government plays an important role in protecting natural resources and biodiversity, and several of the County’s projects and programs have a direct influence on biodiversity conservation. Many other programs and initiatives, such as those that focus on Climate Action and Clean Water, also indirectly support biodiversity.

Biodiversity Action Plan

Natural Resources & Land Conservation Programs

Native Plants

Natural Heritage Committee

Ways You Can Make a Difference

We can all work to become better stewards of the natural environment, as individuals and within our community. Below, you will find suggestions for ways you can make a difference at home, on your land, and in your community.