The National Biological Service (NBS) was established on November 11, 1993, through the transfer of certain functions of the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service, National Park Service, Bureau of Land Management, Minerals Management Service, Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement, U. S.geological Survey, and Bureau of Reclamation. The mission of NBS is to work with others to provide the scientific understanding and technologies needed to support the sound management and conservation of our Nation's biological resources. To accomplish this mission, NBS undertakes research, inventory, monitoring information sharing, and technology transfer activities to foster an understanding of biological systems and their benefits to society. Through these activities, NBS provides essential scientific support, technical assistance, and information required for sound management and policy decisions regarding the Nation's biological resources. NBS establishes partnerships with other Federal, State, and local agencies; with museums and universities; and with private organizations in order to bring coherence to largely uncoordinated efforts and to further fulfill its mission.