What the novel ecosystem concept provides: A reply to Kattan et al

Authors: MILLER, JAMES - University Of Illinois; Bestelmeyer, Brandon

Submitted to: Restoration Ecology
Publication Type: Peer Reviewed Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: 3/15/2017
Publication Date: 7/15/2017
Citation: Miller, J.R., Bestelmeyer, B.T. 2017. What the novel ecosystem concept provides: A reply to Kattan et al. Restoration Ecology. 25:488-490. https://doi.org/10.1111/rec.12530.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1111/rec.12530

Interpretive Summary: The novel ecosystem concept expands the restoration palette by focusing our attention on what is possible when recovery to an historical pre-disturbance condition is not. Although some elements of the concept have long been accepted in restoration circles, the novel ecosystems framework brings these elements to the fore. There is a growing frustration with restoration prescriptions that above all else emphasize native species and historical trajectories, and there is a clear need for alternatives that recognize real limitations to achieving these goals in at least some instances. Though not perfect, the novel ecosystems framework represents such an alternative.

Technical Abstract: The novel ecosystem concept expands the restoration palette by focusing our attention on what is possible when recovery to an historical pre-disturbance condition is not. Although some elements of the concept have long been accepted in restoration circles, the novel ecosystems framework brings these elements to the fore. There is a growing frustration with restoration prescriptions that above all else emphasize native species and historical trajectories, and there is a clear need for alternatives that recognize real limitations to achieving these goals in at least some instances. Though not perfect, the novel ecosystems framework represents such an alternative.