Forests, deserts, prairies, mountain ranges and wetlands are all examples of terrestrial ecosystems. These ecosystems are a fundamental resource on which we depend for agriculture, raw materials and recreation. They also provide habitats for many species, including numerous endangered species. Human industrial activity has a direct effect on these ecosystems through pollution emissions, waste discharges and consumption of natural resources. In order to protect these ecosystems the EPA regulates the release of pollutants, monitors ecological health, and encourages the adoption of environmentally friendly practices in businesses and in our communities.

Recommended EPA Web pages

• Land Research Program
  Provides innovative science solutions to preserve the nation's land, restore contaminated properties, and protect public health from exposure to contaminants.
• Envirofacts Data Warehouse
  A single point of access to select U.S. EPA environmental data.
• Report on the Environment: Land
  Addresses critical land questions by describing national trends in naturally occurring and human uses of land.

Aquatic Ecosystems
Aquaculture, Coral Reefs, Estuaries, Freshwater Ecosystems, Lakes, Marine Ecosystems, Oceans, Shellfish Protection

Ecological Monitoring
Ecological Assessment, Environmental Indicators

Ecological Restoration

Landscape Ecology

Mines
Abandoned Mine

Soils
Erosion, Leaching

Species
Endangered Species, Exotic Species

Terrestrial Ecosystems
Coasts, Forests, Urban Ecosystems, Watersheds, Wetlands