Ecosystem Management and Conservation Biology Technology Transfer

Project Abstract:
There is a huge demand for synthesized information on topics related to Ecosystem Management and Conservation Biology (EMCB). Over 50% of respondents to the recent PFEP client needs survey highlighted "assessing, managing, monitoring and evaluating biodiversity" as the highest priority extension topic. A matrix of information needs compiled from a variety of different sources identified five priority areas for extension: Species and Ecosystems at Risk, Ecosystem Management Planning, Implementation and Monitoring, Climate Change and Conservation, Economics of Conservation and Traditional Ecological Knowledge and Conservation (Leech 2006).

The Forest Science Program's strategic plan for 2004-2008 highlights synthesis as a key approach for improving the extension of research results to forestry staff. When information can be provided in "short, succinct, key messages" for industry, synthesis of existing and new research is an excellent approach for increasing these clients' awareness of information related to the EMCB cluster.

In 2007-08, we are focusing synthesis efforts in the area of coarse filter approaches for maintaining biodiversity, using JEM as a tool to convey the peer reviewed results. We will continue to use lists and websites to succinctly summarize issues related to this topic and provide links to resources for forest managers. A number of LINK articles will be used to achieve the FSP Program Advisory Committee (PAC) goal of ensuring that forestry professionals will be more aware of scientific, experiential and indigenous knowledge related to SFM. The EMCB Cluster will work to produce decision aids to achieve the FSP PAC goal of increasing science-based decision-making.

As in previous years, in 2007-08 the EMCB cluster will produce the conservation list (ConservExt) for clients, continue to add to the Conservation Research Database to increase access to ongoing research related to the EMCB cluster, and maintain the EMCB cluster webpages on FORREX's website. These tools aid in providing clients with access to information related to the EMCB cluster.

For further information on this project, please contact carolyn.whittaker@forrex.org.