On principles and standards in ecological restoration

Eric Higgs, Jim Harris, Steve Murphy, Keith Bowers, Richard Hobbs, Willis Jenkins, Jeremy Kidwell, Nik Lopoukhine, Bethany Sollereder, Katie Suding, Allen Thompson, Steve Whisenant

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

20 Citations (Scopus)
227 Downloads (Pure)

Abstract

The Society for Ecological Restoration has long debated how to define best practices. We argue that a principles-first offers more flexibility for restoration practitioners than a standards-based approach, is consistent with the developmental stage of restoration, and functions more effectively at a global level. However, the solution is not as simple as arguing that one approach to professional practice is sufficient. Principles and standards can and do operate effectively together, but only if they are coordinated in a transparent and systematic way. Effective professional guidance results when standards anchored by principles function in a way that is contextual and evolving. Without that clear relation to principles, the tendency to promote performance standards may lead to a narrowing of restoration practice and the potential to resolve very difficult and diverse ecological and environmental challenges. We offer recommendations on how the evolving project of restoration policy by SER and other agencies and organizations can remain open and flexible.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)399-403
Number of pages5
JournalRestoration Ecology
Volume26
Issue number3
Early online date13 Feb 2018
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - May 2018

Keywords

  • codes of ethics
  • principles
  • professional practice
  • scope of restoration
  • standards

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