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Published on: July 24, 2016
The Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem: challenges for regional ecosystem management
Heather J Lynch1, Stephanie Hodge, Christian Albert
1Biology Department, University of Maryland, 3237 Biology-Psychology Building, College Park, MD 20742, USA. hlynch@umd.edu
Environmental Management
|January 10, 2008
Summary
Adaptive management in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem (GYE) requires improved science input and stakeholder engagement. Recommendations include establishing the GYE as a long-term research site and updating the 1990 Vision document.
Area of Science:
- Ecosystem Management
- Conservation Biology
- Environmental Policy
Background:
- The Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem (GYE) faces complex long-term management challenges.
- Adaptive management is crucial but faces hurdles in science input and stakeholder engagement.
- Historical context, including the 1990 Vision document, informs current management difficulties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the challenges of science input and stakeholder engagement in GYE adaptive management.
- To provide recommendations for more effective long-term ecosystem management.
- To contextualize current issues within the GYE's history.
Main Methods:
- Historical analysis of GYE management, focusing on the 1990 Vision document.
- Examination of challenges in science input and stakeholder engagement.
- Development of recommendations based on analysis.
Main Results:
- Adaptive management alone is insufficient for GYE's long-term challenges.
- Key challenges identified are science input and stakeholder engagement.
- Conflicting legislative mandates hinder flexible ecosystem management and lead to litigation.
Conclusions:
- The GYE should be designated a long-term research and monitoring site with emphasis on integrative research, federal funding, and data dissemination.
- Prioritizing legislative mandates is essential for flexible GYE management.
- A renewed, stakeholder-inclusive Vision for the Future is recommended for effective ecosystem management.
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