Tifft Nature Preserve Management Plan - Buffalo Museum of Science

Mission Statement
The mission of Tifft Nature Preserve…
…is to protect and manage the natural resources and historical value of a
remnant wetland and reclaimed brownfield.
…is to connect environmental education with authentic scientific research.
…is to provide a nature preserve for public enjoyment in an urban setting.
…is to be part of a revitalized and sustainable South Buffalo community.
Tifft Nature Preserve is administered by the Buffalo Society of Natural Sciences
(BSNS) through the Buffalo Museum of Science and is viewed as the Society’s “living
collection” that includes the site’s vegetation, wildlife, hydrology, soils, natural
processes, and history. The aim of the BSNS is to provide quality scientific research
and education to the communities of Buffalo and western New York. The Society’s goal
is to develop Tifft Nature Preserve into the Museum’s environmental education hub
serving the region. When this is achieved, the preserve will connect students and the
public to research on a diversity of environmental, ecological, and science subjects
through experienced-based educational programs.
This plan will address four key aspects to achieve this mission and Tifft Nature
Preserve’s potential.
1. Preserve Management – Like the collections housed at the Museum, the “living
collection” at the preserve requires “curation” or management to maintain its
integrity and guarantee its long-term preservation.
2. Research – Partnerships with universities and colleges will be encouraged that
address research needs to improve and enhance the preserve’s natural and
historical resources.
3. Environmental Education – Several ideas will be proposed for programs to
increase student’s and the public’s understanding of their environment, as well as
connect them with scientists in authentic research studies.
4. Public Enjoyment – Public visitation of the preserve allows people to learn about
and experience their environment, but access needs to be planned and managed
so it does not impair the resources of the preserve.
As specific projects or programs in these four categories are implemented at the
preserve, results will be monitored and compared to goals stated prior to beginning the
project. Using the paradigm of “Adaptive Management”, monitoring allows actions will
be modified (“adapted”) as needed to better achieve desired goals and outcomes.
Tifft Nature Preserve Management Plan 5