Introduction
By Kellie Anderson
Earth is a network of many complex factors that all feed into one giant system. Each ecosystem plays an integral role in the ecologic health of the rest. In this chapter we offer articles on just a few of our planet’s ecosystems in order to encourage a brief but well rounded understanding of some of the complexities facing restoration projects. Our hopes are that the reader will come away with a more holistic understanding of the factors affecting the restoration of a variety of ecosystems. In this chapter we will review some restoration techniques, constructed ecosystems, and some of the actions the United States government has taken to encourage restoration. These articles were chosen to promote a systemic approach to the considerations and implications of restoration.
Article #1 The Forest Restoration Act of 2008
Article # 2 Guidelines for Native Grassland Restoration
Conclusion
By Kellie Anderson
The ecological and environmental aspects of restoration are as dynamic as they are complex. These complicated factors are the responsibility allotted to humanity at this time. There are endless considerations that have put our ecosystems at risk, and enormous energy has been spent to destroy them. We must now apply the same amount of energy towards rehabilitating our natural systems. As this chapter illustrates, creativity and technical thought is required to make a positive difference. If humanity is ever to adapt to the world we inhabit, the massive job of righting our wrongs must be undertaken. The wisdom of natural systems may not ever be understood, but with thoughtful science and careful intuition, we can overcome our
roles as destroyers of life and come into a new portrayal as creators of life.
Discussion Questions
1. Why do you think the Forest Restoration Act focused so greatly on the structural aspects of forest restoration? How would an approach look that was more inclusive of the entire forest ecosystem?
2. What are some other ways of increasing governmental funding for restoration that would more preserve the interest of these ecosystems?
3. What are the evolved factors of grassland ecosystem that make restoration such a slow and challenging process.
4. What role does water play in ecosystem degradation? How can this element be used in the restorative process?
5. What are some important factors in choosing plants species? What are factors to consider in planting location?
6. How could the concept of constructed wetland for grey or waste water be sold to mitigating forces? Where could constructed wetlands fit into your life or community?
7. What other potentials do you see within the wisdom of ecosystems, and the mitigation of human systems?
Additional Reading
This is a video that has relevant techniques and information around the scientific and practical approach to restoration ecology!
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