0.11 Biological  (Page 11/4)

Biological

Introduction

The needs of humans and the living organisms and processes that comprise the biosphere are inextricably connected. Because of this connection the proper management of biological resources requires that genetic diversity and suitable habitats be maintained. There is a growing realization that diversity in biological systems is fundamental to agricultural production and food security. Unfortunately, the diversity of plants and animals and of the habitats in which they live is currently being drastically reduced. The predominant methods used in agricultural are seriously eroding the genetic diversity of plants and livestock. The variety of species and genes of living organisms -- and the habitats and ecosystems in which those organisms live -- are important resources that must be utilized in a sustainable fashion through conservation. Conservation is not just a matter of protecting wildlife in nature reserves. It also involves safeguarding the natural systems that purify water, recycle nutrients, maintain soil fertility, yield food, and protect genetic diversity.

Natural areas

Natural areas, or wilderness areas , comprise ecosystems in which human activity has not significantly affected the plant and animal populations or their environment. Natural processes predominate. According to the "Wilderness Act of 1964," wilderness areas are defined as being those areas where the nearest road is at least five miles away and where no permanent buildings stand. According to the 1898 writings of Naturalist John Muir, "In God's wilderness lies the hope of the world -- the great fresh, unblighted, unredeemed wilderness."

More than 100 million acres of land are now preserved as wilderness under this act. Sparsely populated Alaska contains the largest chunk of wilderness areas, over half of it. Although wilderness areas are scattered among most of the lower 48 states, the largest percentage is found in the western states. Few undesignated areas in the contiguous states remain that would qualify as wilderness.

California contains significant wilderness areas, with over 4 million acres of National Forest Wilderness areas, and 1.5 million acres of mostly desert wilderness in the Mojave Desert National Preserve. Because of the large population of the state, the demand for recreational use of these areas is very high. Heavy demand for the use of a relatively few natural areas is a problem throughout the contiguous states. It is not an easy task for natural resource managers to manage these natural areas in a way that conserves biological diversity and ecosystem integrity, while supporting a sustainable and balanced level of human use.

It is important to preserve natural areas for several reasons. Some people, especially Native Americans, feel a cultural connection to the wilderness through their ancestors that once lived there. Wilderness areas are also of economic importance. Outdoor recreation activities such as hiking and camping benefit tourist industries and manufacturers of outdoor clothes and equipment.