Introduction

Abstract

Interest in the condition, role, and sustainability of southwestern riparian ecosystems has increased greatly since the mid 1970's. Reflecting this growing interest is a series of symposia addressing southwestern riparian issues, including those coordinated by Johnson and Jones (1977), Johnson and McCormick (1979), Johnson et al. (1985), and Tellman et al (1993). The proceedings of these symposia tell an important story about the history of riparian ecosystems, documenting changes in water quality, vegetation, fish and wildlife, land use, and human values. Concern for the declining health of riparian areas, first expressed by the scientific community, has expanded to a much broader spectrum of interest groups including land and water resource managers, educators, recreation managers, sports people, commodity producers, legislators, and environmentalists. All of these people seek information and understanding about the dynamics, functions, uses, and restoration of riparian areas, especially in relation to the quality of human lives and livelihoods.

Parent Publication

• Desired future conditions for Southwestern riparian ecosystems: Bringing interests and concerns together

Citation

Shaw, Douglas W.; Finch, Deborah M. 1996. Introduction. In: Shaw, Douglas W.; Finch, Deborah M., tech coords. Desired future conditions for Southwestern riparian ecosystems: Bringing interests and concerns together. 1995 Sept. 18-22, 1995; Albuquerque, NM. General Technical Report RM-GTR-272. Fort Collins, CO: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Forest and Range Experiment Station. p. 1-2.