Management Strategies for Biodiversity, Species, and Ecosystems at Risk

Project Abstract:
Certain species, habitats and ecosystems are at unnatural risk of degradation, extirpation or extinction. This may be due to lack of awareness and/or knowledge of the science that demonstrates the impacts of anthropogenic activities that can result in management practices that worsen the situation of species and their habitat. This issue is of particular relevance in the current context of changing climatic conditions. While economics remains the primary driver of resource development, resource developers may reduce the negative impacts on species and habitat loss by considering and using the best available science and expert and Indigenous knowledge. This issue is reflected within several priority areas in the new FORREX 2009-2014 Ecosystem Management and Conservation Biology Extension Program, building on some of the key findings of the recently released report "Taking Nature’s Pulse: The Status of Biodiversity in British Columbia" (Austin et al, 2008) and following the strategic direction of the Ecosystem Management and Conservation Biology 2008 Working Group and some of the inspiring principles of the BC Conservation Framework (BC Ministry of Environment). Taking a proactive approach, within this project, the Ecosystem Management and Conservation Biology team will deliver extension products and services in collaboration with the research community that address management strategies for biodiversity and species and ecosystems at risk in BC. This year the project will focus on current research results, decision support tools, and innovative mitigation and adaptation strategies.

For further information on this project, please contact Pedro.LaraAlmuedo@forrex.org.