Resilience from "summary" of State of Washington Natural Heritage Plan by
Resilience is a crucial concept when discussing the conservation and management of natural resources in the State of Washington. It refers to the ability of ecosystems to withstand and recover from disturbances, such as climate change, invasive species, and habitat loss. In essence, resilience is about the capacity of natural systems to adapt and persist in the face of change. One of the key aspects of resilience is diversity. Ecosystems that are diverse in terms of species, genetic variation, and habitats are better able to bounce back from disturbances. This is because different species and genetic traits may respond differently to changes in the environment, ensuring that some elements of the ecosystem can survive and thrive even when others are struggling. Another important aspect of resilience is connectivity. This refers to the ability of different parts of an ecosystem to interact and support each other. For example, connected habitats allow for the movement of species, which can help them find new resources or escape from threats. By maintaining these connections, ecosystems can better withstand disturbances and recover more quickly. Furthermore, resilience is not just about the ability of ecosystems to resist change, but also about their capacity to transform in response to new conditions. This adaptive capacity is crucial in a world where environmental changes are happening at an unprecedented rate. By being able to evolve and change, ecosystems can continue to provide essential services, such as clean water, healthy soils, and pollination services, even in the face of significant challenges.- Resilience is a fundamental concept in the management and conservation of natural resources in Washington. By promoting diversity, connectivity, and adaptive capacity in ecosystems, we can help ensure that they can continue to provide vital services to both humans and wildlife, now and into the future.
