Search

Search Results

• 1. [Article] Regional biodiversity monitoring partnership workshop : final report

  The Biodiversity Monitoring Workgroup (Appendix 1)—which consists of federal, state, university, NGO’s, and private landowner stakeholders who are involved in aspects of monitoring biodiversity in the ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Regional biodiversity monitoring partnership workshop : final report Author: Institute for Natural Resources The Biodiversity Monitoring Workgroup (Appendix 1)—which consists of federal, state, university, NGO’s, and private landowner stakeholders who are involved in aspects of monitoring biodiversity in the states of Oregon and Washington—conceived of the idea of exploring the possibilities of creating a Regional Biodiversity Monitoring Partnership. The Workgroup’s idea of hosting a workshop to explore such possibilities is grounded in a shared vision that recognizes the underlying value of biodiversity and relies on the compiling, managing, and sharing of biodiversity information in the region that will ultimately inform management and conservation efforts and decisions, and identify gaps where new efforts might be needed. The overall effort is sponsored by the U.S. Forest Service Pacific Northwest Research Station as part of the Focused Sciences Delivery Program’s Biodiversity Initiative and facilitated by the Institute for Natural Resources at OSU. Workshop participants greeted the idea and need of having a partnership with warm regard. Many regarded it as an essential component to extending and elevating the presence of monitoring regional biodiversity efforts. While participants spoke well on behalf of a partnership, this document focuses on the issues that individual participants and break-out groups thought needed to be addressed to create a viable, accessible, and sustainable regional biodiversity monitoring partnership. The issues and recommendations listed throughout the document reflect the range of views of individuals and break-out groups and do not reflect a consensus by all participants. Title: Regional biodiversity monitoring partnership workshop : final report Author: Institute for Natural Resources The Biodiversity Monitoring Workgroup (Appendix 1)—which consists of federal, state, university, NGO’s, and private landowner stakeholders who are involved in aspects of monitoring biodiversity in the states of Oregon and Washington—conceived of the idea of exploring the possibilities of creating a Regional Biodiversity Monitoring Partnership. The Workgroup’s idea of hosting a workshop to explore such possibilities is grounded in a shared vision that recognizes the underlying value of biodiversity and relies on the compiling, managing, and sharing of biodiversity information in the region that will ultimately inform management and conservation efforts and decisions, and identify gaps where new efforts might be needed. The overall effort is sponsored by the U.S. Forest Service Pacific Northwest Research Station as part of the Focused Sciences Delivery Program’s Biodiversity Initiative and facilitated by the Institute for Natural Resources at OSU. Workshop participants greeted the idea and need of having a partnership with warm regard. Many regarded it as an essential component to extending and elevating the presence of monitoring regional biodiversity efforts. While participants spoke well on behalf of a partnership, this document focuses on the issues that individual participants and break-out groups thought needed to be addressed to create a viable, accessible, and sustainable regional biodiversity monitoring partnership. The issues and recommendations listed throughout the document reflect the range of views of individuals and break-out groups and do not reflect a consensus by all participants. Close

• 2. [Article] The Evolution Fish Biodiversity: A Time Series Aproach

  Abstract only.

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: The Evolution Fish Biodiversity: A Time Series Aproach Author: Del Valle Erkiaga, Ikerne, Astorkiza, Inma, Astorkiza, Kepa Abstract only. Title: The Evolution Fish Biodiversity: A Time Series Aproach Author: Del Valle Erkiaga, Ikerne, Astorkiza, Inma, Astorkiza, Kepa Abstract only. Close

• 3. [Article] A Regional Biodiversity Monitoring Framework

  A draft monitoring framework that identifies the pieces of a technical plan for biodiversity monitoring, collaboration, and information sharing. The draft sets out to define some general parameters that ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: A Regional Biodiversity Monitoring Framework Author: Molina, Randy, Pacific Northwest Research Station, United States. Forest Service A draft monitoring framework that identifies the pieces of a technical plan for biodiversity monitoring, collaboration, and information sharing. The draft sets out to define some general parameters that will answer these questions: How do we create partnerships?, What should we measure?, and How do we manage information? Title: A Regional Biodiversity Monitoring Framework Author: Molina, Randy, Pacific Northwest Research Station, United States. Forest Service A draft monitoring framework that identifies the pieces of a technical plan for biodiversity monitoring, collaboration, and information sharing. The draft sets out to define some general parameters that will answer these questions: How do we create partnerships?, What should we measure?, and How do we manage information? Close

• 4. [Article] Biodiversity: Connecting with the Tapestry of Life

  Biodiversity is the extraordinary variety of life on Earth – from genes and species to ecosystems and the valuable functions they perform. E.O. Wilson, the noted biologist and author who coined the term ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Biodiversity: Connecting with the Tapestry of Life Author: Granek, Elise F., Dallmeier, Francisco, Alonso, Alfonso, Raven, Peter H. Year: 2001 Biodiversity is the extraordinary variety of life on Earth – from genes and species to ecosystems and the valuable functions they perform. E.O. Wilson, the noted biologist and author who coined the term “biodiversity,” explains it as “the very stuff of life.” Species and the ecosystems in which they live are indelibly linked. Conversion or loss of ecosystems inevitably impairs the species that depend on them. As well, changes in the life cycle of one species could impact the life cycles of many other species (including humans), alter ecosystems and ecosystem functions, and contribute to local, regional and, ultimately, global changes. Life as we know it will not be the same if our rich biodiversity heritage is dramatically altered. And the signs indicate that this is precisely what is happening. Biodiversity is threatened, and not because of catastrophic events such as the asteroid crash that scientists believe caused the extinction of the dinosaurs. The current threat to biodiversity, and thus to the tapestry of life, stems primarily from expanding human populations and increased human consumption of natural resources. Fortunately, together we can take steps to protect our rich biodiversity. The Smithsonian Institution’s Program on Monitoring and Assessment of Biodiversity, under the Conservation and Research Center of the National Zoological Park, and the President’s Committee of Advisors on Science and Technology worked together to prepare this booklet. It explains what biodiversity is, why it is so important, why it is threatened, and what can be done to conserve this valuable resource. Read on to learn more about what we can all do to help. Title: Biodiversity: Connecting with the Tapestry of Life Author: Granek, Elise F., Dallmeier, Francisco, Alonso, Alfonso, Raven, Peter H. Year: 2001 Biodiversity is the extraordinary variety of life on Earth – from genes and species to ecosystems and the valuable functions they perform. E.O. Wilson, the noted biologist and author who coined the term “biodiversity,” explains it as “the very stuff of life.” Species and the ecosystems in which they live are indelibly linked. Conversion or loss of ecosystems inevitably impairs the species that depend on them. As well, changes in the life cycle of one species could impact the life cycles of many other species (including humans), alter ecosystems and ecosystem functions, and contribute to local, regional and, ultimately, global changes. Life as we know it will not be the same if our rich biodiversity heritage is dramatically altered. And the signs indicate that this is precisely what is happening. Biodiversity is threatened, and not because of catastrophic events such as the asteroid crash that scientists believe caused the extinction of the dinosaurs. The current threat to biodiversity, and thus to the tapestry of life, stems primarily from expanding human populations and increased human consumption of natural resources. Fortunately, together we can take steps to protect our rich biodiversity. The Smithsonian Institution’s Program on Monitoring and Assessment of Biodiversity, under the Conservation and Research Center of the National Zoological Park, and the President’s Committee of Advisors on Science and Technology worked together to prepare this booklet. It explains what biodiversity is, why it is so important, why it is threatened, and what can be done to conserve this valuable resource. Read on to learn more about what we can all do to help. Close

• 5. [Article] Mental and biophysical terrains of biodiversity : conservation of oak woodland on family forest

  This research analyzes how family forest owners conceptualize biodiversity in one high-conservation value area of oak woodland in the Willamette Valley of Western Oregon. Oregon white oak (Quercus garyanna) ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Mental and biophysical terrains of biodiversity : conservation of oak woodland on family forest Author: Fischer, Alexandra Paige This research analyzes how family forest owners conceptualize biodiversity in one high-conservation value area of oak woodland in the Willamette Valley of Western Oregon. Oregon white oak (Quercus garyanna) woodland, one of the most biologically diverse ecotypes in the state of Oregon, is in decline. Much of the oak ecotype occurs on the lands of family forest owners. Understanding owners' conceptions of biodiversity is important for the conservation of this important resource. Theories from sociology, social psychology, and policy analysis argue that information about people's knowledge and beliefs is important for understanding and influencing their behavior. This research explores the mental and biophysical terrains of owners' relationships with biodiversity. Through interdisciplinary methods - including concept mapping, in-depth interviews, property mapping and field reconnaissance - it explores the meanings that people give to biodiversity on their family properties. Findings indicate that 1) owners are knowledgeable about the key elements of biodiversity, and 2) their use of this knowledge in management reflects their beliefs about human relationships with nature and external market constraints. Title: Mental and biophysical terrains of biodiversity : conservation of oak woodland on family forest Author: Fischer, Alexandra Paige This research analyzes how family forest owners conceptualize biodiversity in one high-conservation value area of oak woodland in the Willamette Valley of Western Oregon. Oregon white oak (Quercus garyanna) woodland, one of the most biologically diverse ecotypes in the state of Oregon, is in decline. Much of the oak ecotype occurs on the lands of family forest owners. Understanding owners' conceptions of biodiversity is important for the conservation of this important resource. Theories from sociology, social psychology, and policy analysis argue that information about people's knowledge and beliefs is important for understanding and influencing their behavior. This research explores the mental and biophysical terrains of owners' relationships with biodiversity. Through interdisciplinary methods - including concept mapping, in-depth interviews, property mapping and field reconnaissance - it explores the meanings that people give to biodiversity on their family properties. Findings indicate that 1) owners are knowledgeable about the key elements of biodiversity, and 2) their use of this knowledge in management reflects their beliefs about human relationships with nature and external market constraints. Close

• 6. [Article] Heirarachial framework for conserving biodiversity

  EPA/600/A-98/134.

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Heirarachial framework for conserving biodiversity Author: Kiester, Ross, Corvallis Environmental Research Laboratory, White, Denis, Preston, Eric, Freemark, Kathryn EPA/600/A-98/134. Title: Heirarachial framework for conserving biodiversity Author: Kiester, Ross, Corvallis Environmental Research Laboratory, White, Denis, Preston, Eric, Freemark, Kathryn EPA/600/A-98/134. Close

• 7. [Article] Estimating Watershed Biodiversity: An Empirical Study of the Chesapeake Bay in Maryland, USA

  There has been increasing demand for rigorous methods for evaluating biodiversity, one of the ecosystem services that sustains and fulfills human life. After carefully examining the literature, we found ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Estimating Watershed Biodiversity: An Empirical Study of the Chesapeake Bay in Maryland, USA Author: Morimoto, Junko, Voinov, Helena, Wilson, Matthew A., Costanza, Robert Year: 2003 There has been increasing demand for rigorous methods for evaluating biodiversity, one of the ecosystem services that sustains and fulfills human life. After carefully examining the literature, we found three key points that should be taken into account when we evaluate biodiversity. The first point is that any "indicator species" tends to be a leaky target of biodiversity. The second point is that "buffering" that is useful for representing the ecological concept of boundaries should have scientific meanings. The third point is that a "watershed" that integrates most natural processes is advantageous as the spatial range for evaluation. Based on these considerations, we developed the Biodiversity Probability Index (BPI) to account for biodiversity. We analyzed the relationship between BPI and total economic value of ecosystem services per unit area in order to test the reliability and utility of BPI. All BPI values were under a positive regression curve. The curve showed the highest economic value that could be achieved at a given biodiversity status. Based on our findings along the analysis, we conclude that the BPI has two advantages: (1) The BPI identifies the extent of the impact on biodiversity within a given landscape, and its composition of each category of species helps to identify what kind of wild life habitat could be seriously threatened by future land use development; (2) The BPI tells not only the biodiversity condition in ecological sense, but also provides the potential total economic value of ecosystem services, which will be achieved under ideal conditions. Title: Estimating Watershed Biodiversity: An Empirical Study of the Chesapeake Bay in Maryland, USA Author: Morimoto, Junko, Voinov, Helena, Wilson, Matthew A., Costanza, Robert Year: 2003 There has been increasing demand for rigorous methods for evaluating biodiversity, one of the ecosystem services that sustains and fulfills human life. After carefully examining the literature, we found three key points that should be taken into account when we evaluate biodiversity. The first point is that any "indicator species" tends to be a leaky target of biodiversity. The second point is that "buffering" that is useful for representing the ecological concept of boundaries should have scientific meanings. The third point is that a "watershed" that integrates most natural processes is advantageous as the spatial range for evaluation. Based on these considerations, we developed the Biodiversity Probability Index (BPI) to account for biodiversity. We analyzed the relationship between BPI and total economic value of ecosystem services per unit area in order to test the reliability and utility of BPI. All BPI values were under a positive regression curve. The curve showed the highest economic value that could be achieved at a given biodiversity status. Based on our findings along the analysis, we conclude that the BPI has two advantages: (1) The BPI identifies the extent of the impact on biodiversity within a given landscape, and its composition of each category of species helps to identify what kind of wild life habitat could be seriously threatened by future land use development; (2) The BPI tells not only the biodiversity condition in ecological sense, but also provides the potential total economic value of ecosystem services, which will be achieved under ideal conditions. Close

• 8. [Article] Biodiversity Conservation in a Game Theoretic Model of a Fishery

  This paper proposes a game theoretic modeling framework for the assessment of the trade-off between economic efficiency gains and biodiversity conservation in a fishery. It introduces a biodiversity index, ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Biodiversity Conservation in a Game Theoretic Model of a Fishery Author: Sumaila, Ussif Rashid Year: 2001 This paper proposes a game theoretic modeling framework for the assessment of the trade-off between economic efficiency gains and biodiversity conservation in a fishery. It introduces a biodiversity index, and develops an application of the method couched on Namibian hake fisheries. Results from the illustrative example show that the opportunity cost of achieving a “near perfect” level of biodiversity conservation is high. On a more positive note, however, the results also indicate that it is possible (through appropriate management action) to achieve reasonably high biodiversity levels without losing most of the potential economic gains. Title: Biodiversity Conservation in a Game Theoretic Model of a Fishery Author: Sumaila, Ussif Rashid Year: 2001 This paper proposes a game theoretic modeling framework for the assessment of the trade-off between economic efficiency gains and biodiversity conservation in a fishery. It introduces a biodiversity index, and develops an application of the method couched on Namibian hake fisheries. Results from the illustrative example show that the opportunity cost of achieving a “near perfect” level of biodiversity conservation is high. On a more positive note, however, the results also indicate that it is possible (through appropriate management action) to achieve reasonably high biodiversity levels without losing most of the potential economic gains. Close

• 9. [Article] Economic incentives for the conservation of biodiversity with multiple decision-makers

  This thesis investigates the incentives for the conservation of biodiversity with multiple decision-makers by comparing the market equilibrium solution to the social optimum under different assumptions. ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Economic incentives for the conservation of biodiversity with multiple decision-makers Author: Bergeron, Nancy This thesis investigates the incentives for the conservation of biodiversity with multiple decision-makers by comparing the market equilibrium solution to the social optimum under different assumptions. Geographic land areas are modeled to permit two conflicting uses: conservation of biodiversity or conversion of the land for some economic activity. Two main models are developed The first model makes use of a downward-sloping demand curve for biodiversity. This demand can represent the partial or total economic value of biodiversily, or more tangibly, the harvest demand for a given rare species. The market equilibrium will provide less of the species than would be socially optimal because of the oligopolistic structure of the supply side of the market. The second model assumes a "blueprint" demand function for biodiversity where species are seen as genetic and chemical "lead" or "blueprint" resources for industrial use. In the static model, rent can be obtained only f a unique landowner possesses the species of value, otherwise the demanding industry will bid the price down until no rent is captured In this case, the market equilibrium of conservation is socially optimal. In a dynamic model, however, this result is not obtained The multiple stage model reveals a dynamic externality. Further modeling and comparison with real world data are needed to appreciate the importance of this divergence of results. The problem of imperfect substitute species is investigated, and too much conservation can occur in the "blueprint" case from society's point of view. Title: Economic incentives for the conservation of biodiversity with multiple decision-makers Author: Bergeron, Nancy This thesis investigates the incentives for the conservation of biodiversity with multiple decision-makers by comparing the market equilibrium solution to the social optimum under different assumptions. Geographic land areas are modeled to permit two conflicting uses: conservation of biodiversity or conversion of the land for some economic activity. Two main models are developed The first model makes use of a downward-sloping demand curve for biodiversity. This demand can represent the partial or total economic value of biodiversily, or more tangibly, the harvest demand for a given rare species. The market equilibrium will provide less of the species than would be socially optimal because of the oligopolistic structure of the supply side of the market. The second model assumes a "blueprint" demand function for biodiversity where species are seen as genetic and chemical "lead" or "blueprint" resources for industrial use. In the static model, rent can be obtained only f a unique landowner possesses the species of value, otherwise the demanding industry will bid the price down until no rent is captured In this case, the market equilibrium of conservation is socially optimal. In a dynamic model, however, this result is not obtained The multiple stage model reveals a dynamic externality. Further modeling and comparison with real world data are needed to appreciate the importance of this divergence of results. The problem of imperfect substitute species is investigated, and too much conservation can occur in the "blueprint" case from society's point of view. Close

• 10. [Article] Green Roofs and Urban Biodiversity: Their Role as Invertebrate Habitat and the Effect of Design on Beetle Community

  With over half the world's population now living in cities, urban areas represent one of earth's few ecosystems that are increasing in extent, and are sites of altered biogeochemical cycles, habitat fragmentation, ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Green Roofs and Urban Biodiversity: Their Role as Invertebrate Habitat and the Effect of Design on Beetle Community Author: Gonsalves, Sydney Marie Year: 2016 With over half the world's population now living in cities, urban areas represent one of earth's few ecosystems that are increasing in extent, and are sites of altered biogeochemical cycles, habitat fragmentation, and changes in biodiversity. However, urban green spaces, including green roofs, can also provide important pools of biodiversity and contribute to regional gamma diversity, while novel species assemblages can enhance some ecosystem services. Green roofs may also mitigate species loss in urban areas and have been shown to support a surprising diversity of invertebrates, including rare and endangered species. In the first part of this study I reviewed the literature on urban invertebrate communities and diversity to better understand the role of green roofs in providing habitat in the context of the larger urban mosaic. My review concluded that, while other factors such as surrounding land use and connectivity are also important to specific invertebrate taxa, local habitat variables contribute substantially to the structure and diversity of urban invertebrate communities. The importance of local habitat variables in urban green spaces and strong support for the habitat complexity hypothesis in a number of other ecosystems has led to proposals that "biodiverse" roofs--those intentionally designed with varied substrate depth, greater plant diversity, or added elements such as logs or stones--would support greater invertebrate diversity, but there is currently limited peer reviewed data to support this. In order to address the habitat complexity hypothesis in the context of green roofs, in the second part of this study I surveyed three roofs designed primarily for stormwater management, three biodiverse roofs, and five ground-level green spaces, from March until September of 2014 in the Portland metropolitan area. Beetles (Coleoptera) were sampled bi-weekly as representatives of total species diversity. Biodiverse roofs had greater richness, abundance, and diversity of beetle species compared to stormwater roofs, but were not more diverse than ground sites. Both biodiverse roofs and ground sites had approximately 20% native beetle species while stormwater roofs had only 5%. Functional diversity was also higher on biodiverse roofs with an average of seven trophic groups represented, while stormwater roofs averaged only three. Ground sites, biodiverse roofs, and stormwater roofs each grouped distinctively in terms of beetle community composition and biodiverse roof communities were found to be positively correlated with roof age, percent plant cover, average plant height, and plant species richness. These results support the findings of previous studies on the importance of local variables in structuring urban invertebrate communities and suggest that biodiverse design can reliably increase greenroof diversity, with the caution that they remain no replacement for ground level conservation. Title: Green Roofs and Urban Biodiversity: Their Role as Invertebrate Habitat and the Effect of Design on Beetle Community Author: Gonsalves, Sydney Marie Year: 2016 With over half the world's population now living in cities, urban areas represent one of earth's few ecosystems that are increasing in extent, and are sites of altered biogeochemical cycles, habitat fragmentation, and changes in biodiversity. However, urban green spaces, including green roofs, can also provide important pools of biodiversity and contribute to regional gamma diversity, while novel species assemblages can enhance some ecosystem services. Green roofs may also mitigate species loss in urban areas and have been shown to support a surprising diversity of invertebrates, including rare and endangered species. In the first part of this study I reviewed the literature on urban invertebrate communities and diversity to better understand the role of green roofs in providing habitat in the context of the larger urban mosaic. My review concluded that, while other factors such as surrounding land use and connectivity are also important to specific invertebrate taxa, local habitat variables contribute substantially to the structure and diversity of urban invertebrate communities. The importance of local habitat variables in urban green spaces and strong support for the habitat complexity hypothesis in a number of other ecosystems has led to proposals that "biodiverse" roofs--those intentionally designed with varied substrate depth, greater plant diversity, or added elements such as logs or stones--would support greater invertebrate diversity, but there is currently limited peer reviewed data to support this. In order to address the habitat complexity hypothesis in the context of green roofs, in the second part of this study I surveyed three roofs designed primarily for stormwater management, three biodiverse roofs, and five ground-level green spaces, from March until September of 2014 in the Portland metropolitan area. Beetles (Coleoptera) were sampled bi-weekly as representatives of total species diversity. Biodiverse roofs had greater richness, abundance, and diversity of beetle species compared to stormwater roofs, but were not more diverse than ground sites. Both biodiverse roofs and ground sites had approximately 20% native beetle species while stormwater roofs had only 5%. Functional diversity was also higher on biodiverse roofs with an average of seven trophic groups represented, while stormwater roofs averaged only three. Ground sites, biodiverse roofs, and stormwater roofs each grouped distinctively in terms of beetle community composition and biodiverse roof communities were found to be positively correlated with roof age, percent plant cover, average plant height, and plant species richness. These results support the findings of previous studies on the importance of local variables in structuring urban invertebrate communities and suggest that biodiverse design can reliably increase greenroof diversity, with the caution that they remain no replacement for ground level conservation. Close

• 11. [Article] Global Conservation of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services

  Habitat destruction has driven much of the current biodiversity extinction crisis, and it compromises the essential benefits, or ecosystem services, that humans derive from functioning ecosystems. Securing ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Global Conservation of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services Author: Turner, Will R., Brandon, Katrina, Brooks, Thomas M., Costanza, Robert Year: 2007 Habitat destruction has driven much of the current biodiversity extinction crisis, and it compromises the essential benefits, or ecosystem services, that humans derive from functioning ecosystems. Securing both species and ecosystem services might be accomplished with common solutions. Yet it is unknown whether these two major conservation objectives coincide broadly enough worldwide to enable global strategies for both goals to gain synergy. In this article, we assess the concordance between these two objectives, explore how the concordance varies across different regions, and examine the global potential for safeguarding biodiversity and ecosystem services simultaneously. We find that published global priority maps for biodiversity conservation harbor a disproportionate share of estimated terrestrial ecosystem service value (ESV). Overlap of biodiversity priorities and ESV varies among regions, and in areas that have high biodiversity priority but low ESV, specialized conservation approaches are necessary. Overall, however, our findings suggest opportunities for safeguarding both biodiversity and ecosystem services. Sensitivity analyses indicate that results are robust to known limitations of available ESV data. Capitalizing on these opportunities will require the identification of synergies at fine scales, and the development of economic and policy tools to exploit them. Title: Global Conservation of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services Author: Turner, Will R., Brandon, Katrina, Brooks, Thomas M., Costanza, Robert Year: 2007 Habitat destruction has driven much of the current biodiversity extinction crisis, and it compromises the essential benefits, or ecosystem services, that humans derive from functioning ecosystems. Securing both species and ecosystem services might be accomplished with common solutions. Yet it is unknown whether these two major conservation objectives coincide broadly enough worldwide to enable global strategies for both goals to gain synergy. In this article, we assess the concordance between these two objectives, explore how the concordance varies across different regions, and examine the global potential for safeguarding biodiversity and ecosystem services simultaneously. We find that published global priority maps for biodiversity conservation harbor a disproportionate share of estimated terrestrial ecosystem service value (ESV). Overlap of biodiversity priorities and ESV varies among regions, and in areas that have high biodiversity priority but low ESV, specialized conservation approaches are necessary. Overall, however, our findings suggest opportunities for safeguarding both biodiversity and ecosystem services. Sensitivity analyses indicate that results are robust to known limitations of available ESV data. Capitalizing on these opportunities will require the identification of synergies at fine scales, and the development of economic and policy tools to exploit them. Close

• 12. [Article] Tradeoffs associated with managing forested landscapes for multiple-uses

  This study focuses on the tradeoffs that exist for managing forested landscapes for biodiversity and timber production. Tradeoff evaluation is important to natural resource managers so they can understand ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Tradeoffs associated with managing forested landscapes for multiple-uses Author: Lichtenstein, Mark E. This study focuses on the tradeoffs that exist for managing forested landscapes for biodiversity and timber production. Tradeoff evaluation is important to natural resource managers so they can understand the benefits and costs of alternative management prescriptions. The study examines three watersheds in the Oregon Coast Range and 166 terrestrial vertebrate species to determine the productive capacity of the site in terms of biodiversity and timber revenue. Two points are identified that maximize biodiversity and maximize timber revenue that serve as corner solutions for the production possibilities frontier for biodiversity and timber revenue. The frontier identifies all combinations of outputs that are equal in productive efficiency and the slope of the frontier identifies the marginal cost of biodiversity in terms of foregone timber revenue. A special case is then examined that reenacts the proposed management intentions of each ownership group in the study area. The special case model is used to examine the level of efficiency that exists with respect to the productive possibilities frontier. The results of the study indicate that there is a high level of inefficiency in the proposed management intentions of the various ownership groups. Higher levels of revenues can be achieved at the same level of biodiversity. Conversely more biodiversity can be produced at the same level of revenue. Marginal cost analysis also showed that biodiversity comes at an increasingly high cost at the extreme end of the productive capability of the study area. Results also indicate the species that are most affected by management activities are those that require large home ranges (> 200 acres) and species that are the most taxonomically unique. Title: Tradeoffs associated with managing forested landscapes for multiple-uses Author: Lichtenstein, Mark E. This study focuses on the tradeoffs that exist for managing forested landscapes for biodiversity and timber production. Tradeoff evaluation is important to natural resource managers so they can understand the benefits and costs of alternative management prescriptions. The study examines three watersheds in the Oregon Coast Range and 166 terrestrial vertebrate species to determine the productive capacity of the site in terms of biodiversity and timber revenue. Two points are identified that maximize biodiversity and maximize timber revenue that serve as corner solutions for the production possibilities frontier for biodiversity and timber revenue. The frontier identifies all combinations of outputs that are equal in productive efficiency and the slope of the frontier identifies the marginal cost of biodiversity in terms of foregone timber revenue. A special case is then examined that reenacts the proposed management intentions of each ownership group in the study area. The special case model is used to examine the level of efficiency that exists with respect to the productive possibilities frontier. The results of the study indicate that there is a high level of inefficiency in the proposed management intentions of the various ownership groups. Higher levels of revenues can be achieved at the same level of biodiversity. Conversely more biodiversity can be produced at the same level of revenue. Marginal cost analysis also showed that biodiversity comes at an increasingly high cost at the extreme end of the productive capability of the study area. Results also indicate the species that are most affected by management activities are those that require large home ranges (> 200 acres) and species that are the most taxonomically unique. Close

• 13. [Article] Biodiversity : illustrations of some concepts, causes, and consequences

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Biodiversity : illustrations of some concepts, causes, and consequences Author: Russell, Roland B. Title: Biodiversity : illustrations of some concepts, causes, and consequences Author: Russell, Roland B. Close

• 14. [Article] Biological diversity and third world development : a study of the transformation of an ecological concept into natural resource policy

  This work examined the transformation of the concept of biodiversity into natural resource policies of the U.S. Agency for International Development and the World Bank through 1988. The study identified ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Biological diversity and third world development : a study of the transformation of an ecological concept into natural resource policy Author: Vincent, Robert Montgomery This work examined the transformation of the concept of biodiversity into natural resource policies of the U.S. Agency for International Development and the World Bank through 1988. The study identified several groups as playing key roles in the transformation process. These were nongovernmental environmental organizations, the scientific community, and the U.S. Congress. As a framework for analysis, a Process Model is presented which depicts the process that transforms a scientific concept into natural resource policy. As a result of this research, modifications to the original Process Model are proposed. Though this study focuses on the scientific concept of biological diversity, it is suggested that the Process Model may be more broadly applied to other resource issues which follow the model's general steps of concept formulation, value identification, legislation development, and policy formulation. Several conclusions are reached from this study. One is that though there was little agreement about the concept of biodiversity within the scientific community, three broad themes evolved. These themes are ecosystem diversity, species diversity, and genetic diversity. Second, NGEO members did not adopt scientific concepts of biodiversity, but rather developed value positions with respect to biodiversity. These positions were presented to lawmakers the result being that biodiversity legislation was narrowly focused and did not fully reflect the three major diversity themes developed within the scientific community. Finally, policies developed by agencies responsible for implementing biodiversity legislation reflected Congressional intent and were equally narrowly focused. One consequence is that only selected major biodiversity themes are dealt with in agency policy, and this is reflected in agency funded programs to conserve biological diversity. Title: Biological diversity and third world development : a study of the transformation of an ecological concept into natural resource policy Author: Vincent, Robert Montgomery This work examined the transformation of the concept of biodiversity into natural resource policies of the U.S. Agency for International Development and the World Bank through 1988. The study identified several groups as playing key roles in the transformation process. These were nongovernmental environmental organizations, the scientific community, and the U.S. Congress. As a framework for analysis, a Process Model is presented which depicts the process that transforms a scientific concept into natural resource policy. As a result of this research, modifications to the original Process Model are proposed. Though this study focuses on the scientific concept of biological diversity, it is suggested that the Process Model may be more broadly applied to other resource issues which follow the model's general steps of concept formulation, value identification, legislation development, and policy formulation. Several conclusions are reached from this study. One is that though there was little agreement about the concept of biodiversity within the scientific community, three broad themes evolved. These themes are ecosystem diversity, species diversity, and genetic diversity. Second, NGEO members did not adopt scientific concepts of biodiversity, but rather developed value positions with respect to biodiversity. These positions were presented to lawmakers the result being that biodiversity legislation was narrowly focused and did not fully reflect the three major diversity themes developed within the scientific community. Finally, policies developed by agencies responsible for implementing biodiversity legislation reflected Congressional intent and were equally narrowly focused. One consequence is that only selected major biodiversity themes are dealt with in agency policy, and this is reflected in agency funded programs to conserve biological diversity. Close

• 15. [Article] Regional Biodiversity Monitoring: Partnership Workshop

  Oregon's perspectives, differences, and objectives as they pertain to monitoring biodiversity. Presented at the Regional Biodiversity Monitoring: Partnership Workshop on May 18, 2006.

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Regional Biodiversity Monitoring: Partnership Workshop Author: Oregon. Dept. of Fish and Wildlife Oregon's perspectives, differences, and objectives as they pertain to monitoring biodiversity. Presented at the Regional Biodiversity Monitoring: Partnership Workshop on May 18, 2006. Title: Regional Biodiversity Monitoring: Partnership Workshop Author: Oregon. Dept. of Fish and Wildlife Oregon's perspectives, differences, and objectives as they pertain to monitoring biodiversity. Presented at the Regional Biodiversity Monitoring: Partnership Workshop on May 18, 2006. Close

• 16. [Article] The Biodiversity Resource Center: a working model for broad dissemination of biodiversity information in a public service setting.

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: The Biodiversity Resource Center: a working model for broad dissemination of biodiversity information in a public service setting. Author: Butler, Barbara A. Year: 2008, 1991 Title: The Biodiversity Resource Center: a working model for broad dissemination of biodiversity information in a public service setting. Author: Butler, Barbara A. Year: 2008, 1991 Close

• 17. [Article] Systematic Temporal Patterns in the Relationship Between Housing Development and Forest Bird Biodiversity

  To the best of our knowledge, one or more authors of this paper were federal employees when contributing to this work. This is the publisher’s final pdf. The article is copyrighted by the Society for Conservation ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Systematic Temporal Patterns in the Relationship Between Housing Development and Forest Bird Biodiversity Author: Keuler, Nicholas S., Lepczyk, Christopher A., Hammer, Roger B., Pidgeon, Anna M., Radeloff, Volker C., Wood, Eric M., Flather, Curtis H., Stewart, Susan I. To the best of our knowledge, one or more authors of this paper were federal employees when contributing to this work. This is the publisher’s final pdf. The article is copyrighted by the Society for Conservation Biology and published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd. It can be found at: http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/journal/10.1111/%28ISSN%291523-1739. Title: Systematic Temporal Patterns in the Relationship Between Housing Development and Forest Bird Biodiversity Author: Keuler, Nicholas S., Lepczyk, Christopher A., Hammer, Roger B., Pidgeon, Anna M., Radeloff, Volker C., Wood, Eric M., Flather, Curtis H., Stewart, Susan I. To the best of our knowledge, one or more authors of this paper were federal employees when contributing to this work. This is the publisher’s final pdf. The article is copyrighted by the Society for Conservation Biology and published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd. It can be found at: http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/journal/10.1111/%28ISSN%291523-1739. Close

• 18. [Article] Do Forest Commons Contribute to International Environmental Initiatives? A Socio-Ecological Analysis of Nepalese Forest Commons in view of REDD+

  Forests in developing countries have the potential to contribute to global efforts to mitigate climate change, promote biodiversity and support the livelihoods of rural, local people. Approximately one-fourth ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Do Forest Commons Contribute to International Environmental Initiatives? A Socio-Ecological Analysis of Nepalese Forest Commons in view of REDD+ Author: Luintel, Harisharan Year: 2016 Forests in developing countries have the potential to contribute to global efforts to mitigate climate change, promote biodiversity and support the livelihoods of rural, local people. Approximately one-fourth of such forests are under the control of local communities, which primarily manage forests for subsistence and to meet their livelihood needs. The trend of bottom-up community control is increasing through the adoption of decentralization reforms over the last 40 years. In contrast, the United Nations has introduced the top-down program, Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (REDD+) for the conservation and enhancement of forest carbon and the sustainable management of forest in developing countries. REDD+ incentivizes forest-managing communities to sequester carbon and reduce emissions. REDD+ has created hope for managing forests to mitigate climate change and has created fear that the new initiative may not be effective and may not ensure continuing forest-managing community benefits. However, little research has been conducted to answer these concerns. By taking nationally representative data from Nepalese community-managed forests (“forest commons"), I bring insights into whether and how these forests can contribute to REDD+ initiatives, particularly as they relate to carbon sequestration, biodiversity, equity in benefit sharing and collective action. My results indicated the highly variable carbon and biodiversity in the forest plots across the country, depicting the availability of space for additional growth in carbon storage and biodiversity conservation. My results also reflect the complex and varied relationships of carbon with different indices of biodiversity at the national level, across geographic and topographic regions, and in forests with varying canopy covers. Weak positive relationships between carbon sequestration and biodiversity conservation indicate the possibility of synergies between carbon-forestry and biodiversity conservation. I also found that the formal community forestry program (CFP) has clearly positive impacts on biodiversity conservation and household-level equity in benefit sharing and a negative impact on carbon sequestration at the national level. However, disaggregated results of impacts of CFP on biodiversity, carbon and equity across geography, topography, forest quality and social groups display mixed results i.e., either positive or negative or neutral. I also identified that different drivers of collective action have different (i.e., positive, neutral, and negative) associations with carbon sequestration, which either supports or challenges established knowledge. In aggregate, my research indicates the potential of contribution by forest commons, and specially the CFP, to global environmental initiatives such as REDD+. It suggests that targeted, dedicated policies and programs to increase carbon sequestration, biodiversity conservation and foster equity and collective actions are critical. In addition, my results also contribute to the growing literature on socio-ecological implications of forest commons that demonstrated the need of interdisciplinary research to understand human-nature relationships in the changing context. Title: Do Forest Commons Contribute to International Environmental Initiatives? A Socio-Ecological Analysis of Nepalese Forest Commons in view of REDD+ Author: Luintel, Harisharan Year: 2016 Forests in developing countries have the potential to contribute to global efforts to mitigate climate change, promote biodiversity and support the livelihoods of rural, local people. Approximately one-fourth of such forests are under the control of local communities, which primarily manage forests for subsistence and to meet their livelihood needs. The trend of bottom-up community control is increasing through the adoption of decentralization reforms over the last 40 years. In contrast, the United Nations has introduced the top-down program, Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (REDD+) for the conservation and enhancement of forest carbon and the sustainable management of forest in developing countries. REDD+ incentivizes forest-managing communities to sequester carbon and reduce emissions. REDD+ has created hope for managing forests to mitigate climate change and has created fear that the new initiative may not be effective and may not ensure continuing forest-managing community benefits. However, little research has been conducted to answer these concerns. By taking nationally representative data from Nepalese community-managed forests (“forest commons"), I bring insights into whether and how these forests can contribute to REDD+ initiatives, particularly as they relate to carbon sequestration, biodiversity, equity in benefit sharing and collective action. My results indicated the highly variable carbon and biodiversity in the forest plots across the country, depicting the availability of space for additional growth in carbon storage and biodiversity conservation. My results also reflect the complex and varied relationships of carbon with different indices of biodiversity at the national level, across geographic and topographic regions, and in forests with varying canopy covers. Weak positive relationships between carbon sequestration and biodiversity conservation indicate the possibility of synergies between carbon-forestry and biodiversity conservation. I also found that the formal community forestry program (CFP) has clearly positive impacts on biodiversity conservation and household-level equity in benefit sharing and a negative impact on carbon sequestration at the national level. However, disaggregated results of impacts of CFP on biodiversity, carbon and equity across geography, topography, forest quality and social groups display mixed results i.e., either positive or negative or neutral. I also identified that different drivers of collective action have different (i.e., positive, neutral, and negative) associations with carbon sequestration, which either supports or challenges established knowledge. In aggregate, my research indicates the potential of contribution by forest commons, and specially the CFP, to global environmental initiatives such as REDD+. It suggests that targeted, dedicated policies and programs to increase carbon sequestration, biodiversity conservation and foster equity and collective actions are critical. In addition, my results also contribute to the growing literature on socio-ecological implications of forest commons that demonstrated the need of interdisciplinary research to understand human-nature relationships in the changing context. Close

• 19. [Article] Evaluating Temporal Consistency in Marine Biodiversity Hotspots

  This is the publisher’s final pdf. The published article is copyrighted by the author(s) and published by the Public Library of Science. The published article can be found at: http://www.plosone.org/.

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Evaluating Temporal Consistency in Marine Biodiversity Hotspots Author: Ingeman, Kurt E., Lindsley, Amy J., Piacenza, Susan E., Barner, Allison K., Reimer, Jessica N., Rowe, Jennifer C., Heppell, Selina S., Thompson, Kevin A., Thurman, Lindsey L., Kindinger, Tye L., Cerny-Chipman, Elizabeth B., Benkwitt, Cassandra E., Boersma, Kate S., Nelson, Jake, Shen, Chenchen This is the publisher’s final pdf. The published article is copyrighted by the author(s) and published by the Public Library of Science. The published article can be found at: http://www.plosone.org/. Title: Evaluating Temporal Consistency in Marine Biodiversity Hotspots Author: Ingeman, Kurt E., Lindsley, Amy J., Piacenza, Susan E., Barner, Allison K., Reimer, Jessica N., Rowe, Jennifer C., Heppell, Selina S., Thompson, Kevin A., Thurman, Lindsey L., Kindinger, Tye L., Cerny-Chipman, Elizabeth B., Benkwitt, Cassandra E., Boersma, Kate S., Nelson, Jake, Shen, Chenchen This is the publisher’s final pdf. The published article is copyrighted by the author(s) and published by the Public Library of Science. The published article can be found at: http://www.plosone.org/. Close

• 20. [Article] Defining Conservation Priorities for Freshwater Fishes According to Taxonomic, Functional, and Phylogenetic Diversity

  To date, the predominant use of systematic conservation planning has been to evaluate and conserve areas of high terrestrial biodiversity. Although studies in freshwater ecosystems have received recent ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Defining Conservation Priorities for Freshwater Fishes According to Taxonomic, Functional, and Phylogenetic Diversity Author: Strecker, Angela L., Olden, Julian D., Whittier, Joanna B., Paukert, Craig Patrick Year: 2011 To date, the predominant use of systematic conservation planning has been to evaluate and conserve areas of high terrestrial biodiversity. Although studies in freshwater ecosystems have received recent attention, research has rarely considered the potential trade-offs between protecting different dimensions of biodiversity and the ecological processes that maintain diversity. We provide the first systematic prioritization for freshwaters (focusing on the highly threatened and globally distinct fish fauna of the Lower Colorado River Basin, USA) simultaneously considering scenarios of: taxonomic, functional, and phylogenetic diversity; contemporary threats to biodiversity (including interactions with nonnative species); and future climate change and human population growth. There was 75% congruence between areas of highest conservation priority for different aspects of biodiversity, suggesting that conservation efforts can concurrently achieve strong complementarity among all types of diversity. However, sizable fractions of the landscape were incongruent across conservation priorities for different diversity scenarios, underscoring the importance of considering multiple dimensions of biodiversity and highlighting catchments that contribute disproportionately to taxonomic, functional, and phylogenetic diversity in the region. Regions of projected human population growth were not concordant with conservation priorities; however, higher human population abundance will likely have indirect effects on native biodiversity by increasing demand for water. This will come in direct conflict with projected reductions in precipitation and warmer temperatures, which have substantial overlap with regions of high contemporary diversity. Native and endemic fishes in arid ecosystems are critically endangered by both current and future threats, but our results highlight the use of systematic conservation planning for the optimal allocation of limited resources that incorporates multiple and complementary conservation values describing taxonomic, functional, and phylogenetic diversity. Title: Defining Conservation Priorities for Freshwater Fishes According to Taxonomic, Functional, and Phylogenetic Diversity Author: Strecker, Angela L., Olden, Julian D., Whittier, Joanna B., Paukert, Craig Patrick Year: 2011 To date, the predominant use of systematic conservation planning has been to evaluate and conserve areas of high terrestrial biodiversity. Although studies in freshwater ecosystems have received recent attention, research has rarely considered the potential trade-offs between protecting different dimensions of biodiversity and the ecological processes that maintain diversity. We provide the first systematic prioritization for freshwaters (focusing on the highly threatened and globally distinct fish fauna of the Lower Colorado River Basin, USA) simultaneously considering scenarios of: taxonomic, functional, and phylogenetic diversity; contemporary threats to biodiversity (including interactions with nonnative species); and future climate change and human population growth. There was 75% congruence between areas of highest conservation priority for different aspects of biodiversity, suggesting that conservation efforts can concurrently achieve strong complementarity among all types of diversity. However, sizable fractions of the landscape were incongruent across conservation priorities for different diversity scenarios, underscoring the importance of considering multiple dimensions of biodiversity and highlighting catchments that contribute disproportionately to taxonomic, functional, and phylogenetic diversity in the region. Regions of projected human population growth were not concordant with conservation priorities; however, higher human population abundance will likely have indirect effects on native biodiversity by increasing demand for water. This will come in direct conflict with projected reductions in precipitation and warmer temperatures, which have substantial overlap with regions of high contemporary diversity. Native and endemic fishes in arid ecosystems are critically endangered by both current and future threats, but our results highlight the use of systematic conservation planning for the optimal allocation of limited resources that incorporates multiple and complementary conservation values describing taxonomic, functional, and phylogenetic diversity. Close