In 1999 a database was created to log and keep track of the existing and newly acquired specimens, and all of the data contained on specimen labels. To date, one-third of the specimens have been entered into the HAM database. Searches can be performed to determine the historic geographic extent of the selected species. To compliment this, RBG has recently started digitizing its herbarium specimens.

Digital images of herbarium specimens and/or electronic records of the data contained on specimen labels can never replace the physical herbarium. Botanical and horticultural taxonomists as well as ecologists, educators, and naturalists rely on examining and comparing physical specimens for their research, floristic identification and teaching needs. However, digitizing HAM’s specimens and making the images available to our clients will:

• Make the collection more available and provide faster access to specimens for researchers throughout the world;
• Facilitate floristic and taxonomic studies, including studying changes in the distribution of an endangered plant or the spread and occurrence of an introduced plant;
• Present new opportunities to researchers without funds to travel to the herbarium;
• Contribute toward the preservation of the collection by reducing wear and tear associated with handling and shipping;
• Safe-guard the collection by providing a digital back-up to the physical specimens;
• Raise the value of the collection and provide economic benefits to the institution including increased curatorial efficiency and savings on national and international shipping costs
• Address access and benefits sharing (ABS) concerns