New directions in conservation for the National Wildlife Refuge System

    Authors

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

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    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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