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The first step of defining an assessment
endpoint is to determine what ecological entity
you want to protect. An ecological entity can be:
- A species (for instance: piping plover).

- A functional group of species (for instance: piscivores).
- A community (for instance: benthic invertebrates).
- An ecosystem (for instance: lake).
- A specific valued habitat (for instance: wet meadows).
- Another entity of concern.
Once you have identified the entity, the second step is to determine
what about the entity, what specific attribute,
is potentially at risk and important to protect. This clarifies
management goals and gives you a basis for measurement in the risk
assessment.

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Attribute Choices
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Relevant guidelines section(s): 3.3.2
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