Credit: Zaira Gonzalez
5. Identifying priority areas for binational connectivity of large carnivores
Large carnivores are crucial to ecosystem functioning, but most are threatened by human persecution, habitat encroachment, and the loss of habitat connectivity. A landscape connectivity analysis for puma, black bear, and Mexican wolf across northwestern Mexico and the southwestern United States shows that there are numerous existing areas in the region that could connect individuals through smaller patches. Decision-makers, academia, and civil society need to strengthen bonds between countries to consolidate conservation actions and landscape connectivity.
Credit: Pam Brophy
4. Best management practices for ecological corridors
An extensive literature review provides guidance for managing ecological corridors that are close to human populated areas. Management recommendations focus on conserving and enhancing the movement of individuals and their genes, with the goal of making corridors better at protecting both abiotic and biotic flows. The recommendations highlight best practices across four themes: 1) man-made barriers (ie., highways) and how to mitigate them; 2) managing water and riparian areas; 3) managing urban, suburban, and industrial areas in or near corridors; and 4) managing agricultural areas in or near corridors.
Credit: Google Earth
3. Connectivity metrics for conservation planning and monitoring
A whole slew of metrics has been developed for measuring ecological connectivity, making it challenging to choose the best one. A summary review looks at 35 metrics and sorts them along a spectrum from fully structural to fully functional. It includes a decision tree that can help select the most appropriate connectivity metrics using three factors: (1) the extent of human modification of the focal landscape, (2) which of four conservation objectives is to be assessed, and (3) the type of connectivity to be measured.
Credit: Center for Large Landscape Conservation
2. State-by-state connectivity policies in the U.S.
In light of the urgent need to conserve native wildlife and improve human safety, numerous U.S. states have taken action in recent years to protect wildlife corridors. The U.S. State Habitat Connectivity Policies map provides updated information on which states currently have enacted or introduced connectivity legislation or wildlife migration executive orders. In addition, the U.S. State Connectivity Policy Library provides summary information on each state policy and links to the original text.
Credit: Oleg Alexandrov
1. Both social and landscape networks are needed for effective climate-wise connectivity
Realizing climate-wise connectivity requires both identifying and securing habitat linkages that provide climate resilience. The outcomes of an assessment conducted by the Mayacamas to Berryessa Connectivity Network illustrate the intertwined need for both social and landscape connections. Insights into locations that offer seasonal cooling can be used in conservation planning to ensure that climate needs are met. The collaborative process provides a framework for scientists and practitioners to exchange ideas and form an enduring social network.
