Title

New directions in conservation for the National Wildlife Refuge System

Authors

Authors

V. J. Meretsky; R. L. Fischman; J. R. Karr; D. M. Ashe; J. M. Scott; R. F. Noss;R. L. Schroeder

Comments

Authors: contact us about adding a copy of your work at STARS@ucf.edu

Abbreviated Journal Title

Bioscience

Keywords

biological integrity; diversity; environmental health; National Wildlife; Refuge System Improvement Act; refuge management; BIOLOGICAL INTEGRITY; RESOURCE MANAGEMENT; INDICATORS; ECOSYSTEM; INDEX; Biology

Abstract

The National Wildlife Refuge System Improvement Act of 1997 includes the nations broadest statutory commitment to ecosystem protection: to '' ensure that the biological integrity, diversity, and environmental health of the system are maintained.'' The act also directs the US Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) to expand the scope of conservation monitoring, assessment, and management beyond refuge boundaries to encompass surrounding landscapes. The act thus gives the FWS a leadership role in developing research and management partnerships with other agencies, organizations, and neighboring landowners. Increasing research capacity and scientific expertise, and strengthening institutional resolve to limit activities that impede the attainment of this directive, are challenges for the FWS. Success requires reexamination of existing priorities, refocused training, the acquisition of new funding and technical expertise, and creative application of those new skills to meet the laws broad mandate.

Journal Title

Bioscience

Volume

56

Issue/Number

2

Publication Date

1-1-2006

Document Type

Article

Language

English

First Page

135

Last Page

143

WOS Identifier

WOS:000235422800014

ISSN

0006-3568

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