Conserving the Future: Wildlife Refuges and the Next Generation

Hello Friends and colleagues – for those of us more new to the concept of ”beyond the boundaries” – where can we go to learn more about what you mean? thanks!

Interesting dialogue on instilling an ecological conscience or land ethic in America (and the the world?). A lofty goal, and if ever achieved, would certainly solve many of the fish and wildlife problems facing this country and beyond.

But let’s face it. This country set aside parks, forests, and refuges to protect a portion of the landscape from the darker consumptive side of humans. It was so 100 years ago and remains so today.

Attempting to influence or change the collective behaviors, beliefs, and value systems of the public is a worthwhile endeavor, as long as one keeps in perspective that it’s a long slog. And yet we must remember that our mission, our job, first and foremost is to take care of the lands, waters, and wildlife of the Refuge System. That is the charge from the American people through Congress. If we do that job to the best of our ability, we show millions of people an actual, concrete example of an ecological conscience and the land ethic of Aldo Leopold. Is it enough? No, but it is our charge.

For much of my career I worked on the prairies, a landscape of critical importance to two clashing value and economic systems: prairie wetlands and their wildlife and agriculture. Economic needs of farmers and agribusiness almost always trumps the land ethic. It was sad to see even new generations of farmers with the benefit of more education and knowledge of ecological systems still farm the land from road to road (I’d say fence row to fence row, but they are mostly gone). Without the acquisition of millions of acres in fee and especially easement on the northern prairies, I’m convinced the wetlands would have all gone the way of the bison. On landscapes across the country, the Refuge System has made a difference and shown by example to all citizens that there is another way.

We must remember that if everything becomes a priority, nothing is a priority. However, I do see a place for teaching and talking about environmental sustainability as we welcome visitors to their refuges and conduct our interpretive and educational programs. Rather than a goal that makes the communication of sustainability a high priority for the Refuge System and the Service, why not ensure that we live these values in our land management and public use programs. Leading by example may have more power to change than communication of the ideas alone.