Restoring Nature: The Evolution of Channel Islands National Park

The California Channel Islands are an archipelago of eight islands off the coast of California, designated as a National Park in 1980 to protect and restore their rich habitat. Lary M. Dilsaver and Timothy J. Babalis' book "Restoring Nature" examines how the National Park Service has attempted to reestablish native wildlife and vegetation through restorative ecology and public land management. The program became a blueprint for management throughout the U.S. park system.

Format: Hardback
Length: 426 pages
Publication date: 16 December 2022
Publisher: University of Nebraska Press

Off the coast of California, spanning from Santa Barbara to La Jolla, lies an enchanting archipelago of eight islands collectively referred to as the California Channel Islands. In 1980, a significant milestone was reached when the northern five islands were officially designated as Channel Islands National Park. This noble endeavor aimed to safeguard and rejuvenate the rich biodiversity of these islands and the surrounding waters. However, the scope of this mission expanded over time as scientists uncovered the profound damage inflicted upon these delicate habitats and the alarming state of the surrounding seas.

In their captivating book, "Restoring Nature: The National Park Service's Efforts to Reestablish Native Wildlife and Vegetation on the Channel Islands," Lary M. Dilsaver and Timothy J. Babalis delve into the intricate details of how the National Park Service has undertaken a remarkable journey to restore native wildlife and vegetation to these five islands through the principles of restorative ecology and public land management. The Channel Islands staff, true pioneers in their field, introduced an innovative inventory and monitoring program. This program not only shed light on the resource challenges faced by the islands but also became a blueprint for management practices across the United States park system.

Dilsaver and Babalis offer a captivating regional and environmental history, shedding light on a lesser-known corner of the Pacific West. At the same time, they weave a broader national narrative that explores the evolution of the Park Service's approach to restoration ecology. This approach, pioneered by the Channel Islands staff, became a template for broader Park Service policies that shaped the next generation of environmental conservation efforts.

Through their meticulous research and insightful storytelling, Dilsaver and Babalis provide readers with a deep understanding of the challenges and triumphs faced by the National Park Service in preserving and restoring the natural beauty of the California Channel Islands. Their book serves as a valuable resource for environmental enthusiasts, policymakers, and anyone passionate about preserving and protecting our planet's precious ecosystems.

Weight: 786g
Dimension: 159 x 236 x 34 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781496233363