RCIS

An RCIS is a science-based, partner and community driven conservation planning tool that identifies conservation priorities in a region and enables advance mitigation. The RCIS is used to inform siting and design of public infrastructure projects, inform local land use, and guide public and private conservation investments. An approved RCIS allows for the development of Mitigation Credit Agreements (MCAs) which can be used to fulfill compensatory mitigation requirements for impacts to habitat and other natural resources.

A conservation strategy is organized around selected focal species and other conservation elements (e.g., natural communities, unique habitat types, ecological processes). Non-focal species may be included that have similar, or the same, ecological requirements as a focal species or other conservation element, and may be eligible for MCA credits created for the associated focal conservation element.

RCIS actions can include protecting, enhancing, restoring, or managing species habitat, natural communities, ecological processes, or wildlife corridors, and must provide for adaptation opportunities for the focal conservation element against the expected effects of climate change and other threats in the RCIS area.