Ecological Management of Sensitive Natural Areas

Abstract

Most of the world’s remaining “midlands” are relatively small areas that are located in highly intrusive economic landscapes. The populations, species interactions, and system properties enclosed in these areas will require proactive management efforts to prevent continual degradation. In this chapter, I present a “taxonomy” of natural areas and ecological processes that are especially sensitive and will require active management. These are (1) rare species, habitats, and resources; (2) small and fragmented habitats; (3) sites with vulnerable locations; (4) areas with low resilience to perturbations; and (5) keystone resources. I conclude with a discussion of three management issues that are of particular concern to conservation and that are characterized by differing levels of uncertainty and time scales. These are (1) the management of populations that are strongly influenced by human activity, (2) the changing economic landscape, and (3) the possible consequences of climate change. Throughout the chapter I attempt to highlight areas where major research gaps exist.