Conceptual framework for evaluating and quantifying naturalness
Anderson JE. 1991. Conceptual framework for evaluating and quantifying naturalness. Conservation Biology. 5(3):347-352
Naturalness is a scientific concept that can be evaluated and quantified. Intactness or integrity of ecosystems can be defined and assessed in similar ways. Three indices of naturalness are proposed: 1) the degree to which the system would change if humans were removed; 2) the amount of cultural energy required to maintain the functioning of the system as it currently exists; and 3) the complement of native species currently in an area compared with the suite of species in the area prior to settlement. These indicies are complementary and provide a conceptual framework for evaluating naturalness. The latter two can be quantified.
- Type
- Journal Article
- Authors
- Anderson, Jay
- Units
- YELL
- Keywords
- Backcountry, Competition, Ecology, Ecosystems, Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, Human Impact, Management, Native Species, Natural Resource Management, Natural Resources