CNVC Overview

The Classification

The mandate of the Canadian National Vegetation Classification (CNVC) is to define and describe the natural and semi-natural vegetation of Canada at various levels of ecological generalization, using standardized criteria and terminology. The CNVC uses the same 8-level hierarchy 
as does the United States National Vegetation Classification (USNVC). In most cases, CNVC units correspond to those of the USNVC; however, there are some differences.

To learn about the methods used to develop the CNVC as well as its primary goals, principles, and standards, see Development of the CNVC.

 

The Factsheets

Each CNVC unit is described by a factsheet. The factsheet provides a summary of the ecological attributes of the unit, including information on vegetation structure, plant species composition, environmental context, geographic distribution, and ecological process relationships (e.g. disturbance regime). Ultimately, there will be a factsheet available for every unit within the hierarchy. For a detailed description of the layout and information content of the factsheets, see Understanding the Factsheet.

To search the CNVC for factsheet descriptions of specific vegetation units, see Explore the Classification.