I N   R E S T O R A T I O N   E C O L O G Y

This research explored multi-disciplinary perspectives in the emerging field of restoration ecology by analyzing firsthand accounts told by experienced restoration ecologists about their experiences and examining the social challenges they encountered.  Through these stories, the researcher hoped to identify and evaluate different models of “authorship” for restoration narratives.

During this study, in-depth interviews were conducted with thirteen restoration ecologists representing contrasting viewpoints and from several sub-disciplines.  It was found that informants differed in the degree of public involvement they engaged in their work, differences that could be identified as three basic processes: (1) a linear approach with no community input, (2) a hierarchal approach that addresses community concerns but does not actively incorporate these issues into the results, and (3) a participatory approach that allows community member concerns to inform the project goals.

Understanding these responses and characterizing decision models in restoration ecology are significant for several reasons.  Through collaboration, the burden of making complex restoration decisions may be shared with others, thereby reducing some of the anxiety association with this work.  Helping the public to understand a restoration project and allowing them to access at least some portion of the restored site may enhance public understanding and support for the project.  It is also likely that if both restoration experts and the public enjoy the restoration process, the number and/or scale of successful restoration projects may increase.

For a more in depth discussion of this project, see Initiatives 2002 - 2003.