Full Description

One of the first projects of the Nature Conservancy's new initiative intended to restore and protect entire functioning ecosystems (bioreserves) involves the Texas Hill Country, about 18,560 square miles served by six aquifers, the major one of which is the Edwards Aquifer. Unlike most Nature Conservancy projects, this one will not involve wholesale purchase of land to be set aside. Instead, the plan has five goals: (1) preserving plants and animals and their habitats; (2) conserving groundwater; (3) protecting surface water; and (4) accepting economic development by promoting that which is environmentally compatible and sustainable. This area encompasses a catchment area, a recharge zone, an artesian aquifer, springs, and surface water. Each feature has its own ecological system, and many unique, rare, threatened, and endangered species live in them. Threats to the ecosystems stem from overgrazing, clearing the land, overdrafting the aquifer, erosion, use of pesticides, discharge of wastewater effluent, chemical spills, and the introduction of nonnative species. Four approaches must be taken. First, state and local policy makers, water managers, and scientists must adopt a regional or ecosystem point of view. Second, available hydrologic and biologic information must be gathered. Third, a comprehensive program of reasonable management alternatives must be introduced. Fourth, a sustainable use ethic must be adopted.

Product Details

Published: 01/01/1993 ISBN(s): 0898677122 Number of Pages: 15File Size: 1 file , 620 KB