Welcome to the Rhode Island Natural History Survey

The Rhode Island Natural History Survey is an independent non-profit organization founded in 1994 to gather and disseminate information on Rhode Island’s animals and plants, geology, and ecosystems, to facilitate communication among the diverse people, agencies, and organizations interested in the ecology of Rhode Island, and to support naturalists and the study of Rhode Island’s natural history.

RINHS hosts public events and publishes to highlight biodiversity and the work of researchers and naturalists. It manages BORIIS, the most authoritative database of Rhode Island’s biodiversity. RINHS undertakes ecological research and inventory projects and educational programs with partners including The Nature Conservancy and local land trusts. Membership in RINHS is open to anyone with an interest in Rhode Island’s plants, animals, geology, or ecosystems.

The 2009 BioBlitz was held on June 5 and 6 in Glocester, RI. Around 110 people participated and they identified 983 species of animals and plants. Several state listed species were seen, including a water shrew, and there was a new state record for slugs (Philomycus carolinianus)! A full report will follow soon. Thanks to all the participants, to the Glocester Land Trust for showing us great hospitality, and to sponsors Roger Williams Park Zoo, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, and Largess Forestry.

RINHS recently hosted an intern from the University of Rhode Island’s Coastal Fellows Program. Ryan Kleinart worked with RINHS botanist, Hope Leeson, and others, to map invasive plants in various parts of the state. Ryan’s poster about his experience was displayed in the College of the Environment and Life Sciences on December 14. Information about Ryan’s poster and his recommendations for those interested in careers in conservation science and natural resource management is available HERE.

The RINHS office is on the University of Rhode Island campus in Kingston. We also often host events on campus. A map showing the office, our usual event venues, and parking, is available on Google. Click HERE.