Goal: Develop a science-based conservation plan that
identifies key habitat and ecological processes to guide
protection and restoration activities in the densely
populated San Francisco Bay Area.
The Problem: Rapid, haphazard development in the
San Francisco Bay Area irrevocably alters key habitat
before its importance and vulnerability are recognized.
Science advisor: Stuart B. Weiss, PhD, of the
Creekside Center for Earth Observation, provides
expertise and experience needed for conservation
planning and implementation.
Project website: www.openspacecouncil.org
Conservation Approach: The San Francisco Bay
Area Upland Habitat Goals Project employs a
science-based process to help conserve biodiversity
for future generations. The project, administered by the
Bay Area Open Space Council, will provide
recommendations for protection of upland habitat
based on existing and new data, expert opinion, and
map-based analyses. These recommendations will be
available to guide private and public conservation
efforts concerning land acquisition and restoration. A
sound framework for habitat protection enables land
management agencies and local jurisdictions charged
with land use planning to procure and direct funds for
conservation. Informed assessment and planning are
crucial to conserve and restore healthy ecosystems,
while permitting compatible uses as rapid development
continues in the Bay Area.
download upland goals vision pdf

Copyright 2008 © Creekside Center for Earth Observation LLC. All rights reserved.
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Creekside Center
for Earth Observation
Elements of Conservation Planning:
- Habitat requirements: map habitat needs for
target species;
- Risk assessment: identify threats to target species
viability and recommend measures to reduce risk;
- Conservation goals: recommend habitat
protection and stewardship practices for target
species;
- Adaptive management: periodically review
success, reevaluate goals, and redirect
management as required;
- Planning tools: develop a Geographic Information
System (GIS) database and associated map-
based conservation planning tools;
- Reporting: develop a final report with
conservation recommendations, available as an
informational resource for public and private
organizations
Contact
- Stuart B. Weiss, PhD, CEO and Chief Scientist, Creekside
Center for Earth Observation, stu at creeksidescience.com
Oak woodland / grassland in the San Francisco Bay Area. (Photo by J. Woodbury)
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San Francisco Bay Area Upland Habitat Goals Project
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