According to Zachary M. Smith and his article Wildlife Preserves, there are seven main reasons for Nature Preserves. Preserves allow sometimes large areas of natural vegetation to stay together and not be broken up by development. This is important for the vegetation. They also provide areas for species protection so development does not drive out an entire species. Preserves protect rare landscape elements as well. They maintain vital connections from one area of a species habit to the other and they allow natural ecological processes to occur that can aid in human success such as a prairie preventing a flood. They also contribute to the success of rare species that can inhabit a local area. Lastly they provide an area for humans and nature to interact in a way that does no harm to either species.
Nature preserves are needed in our growing population. We need places to learn about and enjoy nature at a young age so we will be more inclined to preserve it as we grow older. They provide an area for us to interact with nature in positive ways and even help to keep us safe in the case of a flood or fire. I hope in the future we do not lose sight of nature and if anything keep nature and wilderness in the forefront before it is lost forever.
Its interesting reading your posts about nature preserves, but it leaves me with one question.... How do Nature Preserves apply to the science classroom and education? I think they are beneficial to have, but I would love to learn more about how I can use them in context to a science classroom/lesson.
ReplyDeleteThere is a book called"Last Child in the Woods" by Richard Louv that has a national movement of followers behind it. the main idea is that children don't spend time outside exploring their world and this has created a disconnect between the child, nature, and even the larger community. Teachers, parents, and community leaders have come up with curriculum around the book:http://richardlouv.com/children-nature-resources
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