Habitat Creation and Repair


Book Description

Responding to concerns about the environment, landscape managers and developers are using extensive naturalistic plantings to restore habitats degraded by building, development, or overuse. This book is the definitive guide to habitat creation and repair; it includes discussions of ethics, theory, and general principles, along with the practical details of designing habitats for wildlife. The authors, who have been working and teaching in the field for many years, draw on a wealth of practical experience--as well as an in-depth knowledge of the widely scattered literature--to provide an authoritative and accessible account of this rapidly developing subject. From coastal and freshwater ecosystems to mountains, forest, and grasslands, the book contains specific chapters on most of the major habitat types. The authors give advice on deciding when habitat creation is the correct path to follow, and then cover all steps from site survey through to the final design and actual realization of the scheme. A useful resource for professionals, this volume is ideal as a textbook for advanced undergraduate and graduate courses in ecology, landscape architecture, resource management, and environmental science.




Wetland Drainage, Restoration, and Repair


Book Description

Wetlands are a vital part of the landscape and ecology of the United States, providing food and shelter for species ranging from the beautiful wood duck to the tiny fairy shrimp. These areas provide critical habitat for fish and wildlife, protect communities from flooding, and recharge groundwater supplies—yet they continue to be destroyed at an alarming rate. A detailed analysis of wetlands management, Wetland Drainage, Restoration, and Repair is a comprehensive guide to the past, present, and future of wetland recovery in the United States. The book includes a historical overview of wetland destruction and repair over the past two hundred years and also serves as a unique resource for anyone, from novice to engineer, interested in the process of wetland restoration. Author Thomas R. Biebighauser draws from his own vast experience in building and repairing more than 950 wetlands across North America. Included are numerous photographs and case studies that highlight successes of past projects. Detailed, step-by-step instructions guide the reader through the planning and implementation of each restoration action. Biebighauser also provides a number of effective strategies for initiating and improving funding for wetlands programs. Wetland Drainage, Restoration, and Repair is essential reading for all who care about and for these important ecosystems.










Urban Habitats


Book Description

The author presents an illustrated and practical guide to the wide range of urban habitats and the flora and fauna that live within them. The important conservation and management issues presently being faced within our towns and cities are examined. Topics of concern to the conservationalist or habitat manager are explored, including: * the impact and monitoring of pollution * the effects of invasive species * guidelines for the ecological management of sites to enhance their nature conservation value. Urban Habitats is richly illustrated, features up-to-date references and data, and proposes a series of projects.







Beyond Conservation


Book Description

After decades of operating off-the-backfoot and protecting and conserving nature perceived as under threat, conservationists are becoming proactive and creative in the face of habitat loss, agricultural intensification and climate change. Beyond Conservation offers a revolutionary agenda for both managing existing wildlands in Britain and for expanding and connecting such lands. Central to this strategy is the imperative to 'rewild' or restore and repair damaged habitat and ecosystems, promote existing biodiversity and reintroduce vanished plant and animal species, while working to reconcile human needs and livelihoods and the needs of nature.