Conservation efforts have yielded impressive results in the past century, with species like the peregrine falcon, American bison, and Pacific gray whale making remarkable recoveries. However, recent developments signal a pressing need for a new approach.
Last year, the federal government proposed removing 23 species from the endangered list—not due to recovery, but because they have become extinct. This sobering reality underscores the urgency of reimagining our conservation strategies.
Karl Wenner’s Innovative Approach to Wetland Restoration
Karl Wenner, a retired surgeon and passionate conservationist, exemplifies this shift in thinking. Although he now spends only a few hours a month teaching, he remains deeply involved in conservation through his co-ownership of Lakeside Farms in Oregon’s Klamath Basin.
This region, once rich in wetlands, now suffers from severe habitat loss. Without these wetlands, Upper Klamath Lake receives unfiltered runoff laden with phosphorus-rich volcanic soil, leading to harmful algal blooms. These blooms endanger two unique federally protected fish species, leaving an aging population with almost no young fish.
To combat this, Wenner’s farm has implemented a winter flooding strategy to both manage weeds and create waterfowl habitat. Previously, I witnessed vast flocks of ducks and swans visiting his fields, their presence a testament to Wenner’s commitment.
This year, with a $350,000 grant from the U.S. government, Wenner and his partners have established permanent wetlands on 70 out of their 400 acres. These new wetlands will filter phosphorus before irrigation water returns to the lake and provide year-round habitat for diverse species, including the endangered baby suckers. “We can’t turn back time,” Wenner notes, “but we can make our efforts resonate with the past.” Despite his enthusiasm, Wenner emphasizes that financial viability is crucial: “It has to pencil out.”
The Biden Administration’s 30×30 Conservation Goal
The conservation landscape is also being reshaped by national policies. In his first week in office, President Joe Biden signed an executive order aiming to “conserve at least 30 percent of our lands and waters by 2030.” This ambitious “30×30” goal, inspired by global conservation efforts, faces significant debate over what qualifies as “conserved.” The proposal’s broad scope, which may include working lands and urban parks, could spark disagreements among conservationists and land users alike.
As the Biden administration unveils its 30×30 strategy, it signals a broad definition of conservation, extending beyond traditional parks and refuges. Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland emphasizes that conservation should unite the country, engaging diverse stakeholders, including tribal communities, private landowners, and recreational users.
Expanding Conservation Beyond Traditional Parks
Historically, large public protected areas formed the backbone of American conservation efforts. While these areas remain vital, additional strategies are necessary to protect all species and ecosystems, particularly as climate change accelerates.
New marine sanctuaries and national monuments are being proposed, such as the Chumash Heritage in California and the Spirit Mountain in Nevada. However, to truly safeguard our natural world, conservation must extend to private lands, farms, and urban areas.
Innovative Conservation on Working Lands
To bridge the gap between conservation and land use, conservationists are turning to working lands. In the Appalachian region, which holds a wealth of biodiversity yet fewer large protected areas, efforts are underway to integrate conservation with economic activities.
The Nature Conservancy’s Cumberland Forest Project, for example, involves managing 253,000 acres of Appalachian forest for both conservation and economic benefits. This approach includes selective logging, carbon credit sales, and solar farm installations on former coal-mining sites.
Reviving Appalachia’s Biodiversity
Appalachia, known for its rich biodiversity, is seeing new conservation initiatives. The reintroduction of elk to Virginia’s Cumberland Forest, once an area devastated by coal mining, highlights the region’s potential for ecological restoration. Volunteers and conservation groups are working to reestablish elk populations and enhance local habitats, which also boosts tourism and local economies.
Integrating Conservation and Agriculture
Conservation efforts also intersect with agriculture, where practices such as holistic grazing can significantly benefit ecosystems. Ron Holter, a dairy farmer in Maryland, exemplifies this integration. By adopting rotational grazing, Holter’s farm has improved soil health and water retention, demonstrating how farming practices can contribute to broader conservation goals.
Conclusion
As we navigate the complexities of conservation in a warming climate, it’s clear that innovative approaches are essential. From redefining conservation goals to integrating ecological restoration with economic activities, these efforts highlight a need for a holistic and inclusive conservation strategy. By adapting our methods and embracing new solutions, we can work towards a more sustainable future for our planet.
