Evolving conservation paradigms for the Anthropocene

Abstract

The Anthropocene will have fundamental effects on the species composition, function, and structure of the ecosystems of the world. Land management agencies such as the USDA Forest Service will need to adapt their policies and conservation activities to avoid engaging in continuous conflict with natural processes and unfamiliar biotic assemblages. Conservation paradigms need to evolve to face the Anthropocene without abandoning the wisdom and relevance of paradigms from previous eras of conservation activity. A new paradigm for conservation in the Anthropocene could be summarized as follows: Applying adaptive conservation to all human activities.

Parent Publication

• Forest conservation and management in the Anthropocene: Conference proceedings

Citation

Lugo, Ariel E. 2014. Evolving conservation paradigms for the Anthropocene. In: Sample, V. Alaric; Bixler, R. Patrick, eds. Forest conservation and management in the Anthropocene: Conference proceedings. Proceedings. RMRS-P-71. Fort Collins, CO: US Department of Agriculture, Forest Service. Rocky Mountain Research Station. p. 47-59.