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Chicago wilderness: a new force in urban conservation
Debra K Moskovits1, Carol Fialkowski, Gregory M Mueller
1Conservation Programs, Chicago Wilderness, 8 S. Michigan, Suite 900, Chicago, IL 60603, USA.
Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences
|July 16, 2004
Summary
Chicago Wilderness is a collaborative initiative uniting over 170 organizations to restore and protect the Chicago region's biodiversity. Their regional biodiversity recovery plan guides actions for ecological health and public engagement.
Area of Science:
- Conservation Science
- Ecology
- Environmental Policy
Background:
- Launched in 1996, Chicago Wilderness is a coalition of over 170 organizations in the Chicago metropolitan area.
- The initiative aims to restore and connect natural areas, fostering biodiversity within a major urban landscape.
- It seeks to re-establish a cultural connection between human communities and the protection of natural resources.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline the vision and goals of the Chicago Wilderness initiative.
- To detail the development and objectives of a regional biodiversity recovery plan.
- To emphasize the importance of public engagement and collaboration in conservation efforts.
Main Methods:
- A 3-year assessment and planning process involving scientists, land managers, educators, and policy strategists.
- Development of a regional biodiversity recovery plan with defined priorities and actions.
- Focus on targeted research to characterize native biodiversity and identify recovery needs.
Main Results:
- Establishment of a coalition of over 170 organizations working towards a shared conservation vision.
- Creation of a comprehensive regional biodiversity recovery plan.
- Initiation of collaborative efforts in conservation education and public outreach.
Conclusions:
- The long-term survival of the region's natural wealth depends on sustained public support.
- Collaborative approaches are essential for effective conservation education and communication.
- Chicago Wilderness provides a framework for engaging diverse audiences in conservation initiatives.