Title
Citizen Science Surveys of Urban Biodiversity Inform Land-Use Policy and Management.
Author(s)
Reed, Sarah; Pejchar, Liba
Published
2017
Abstract
Over half of the world’s population now lives in cities, and preserving natural areas in urban ecosystems is critical for conserving biodiversity, maintaining ecosystem function, and sustaining human well-being. For three years (2014- 2016), we surveyed bird and butterfly communities with volunteer citizen scientists in a rapidly growing mid-sized city. We conducted point-count and Pollard-walk surveys in 166 urban natural areas stratified among nine land uses ranging from formal city parks and nature reserves to schoolyards and community gardens. Of more than 60 site and landscape variables, land use had the strongest influence on species richness and community composition. Bird species richness and representation of urban-sensitive and grassland-specialist birds were greatest in public nature reserves and private open spaces certified for their natural resource values. Representation of native and migratory butterflies was also greatest in lands managed for natural resources, whereas butterfly species richness was greatest in city parks and community gardens. Vegetation cover, distance to water, and impervious surface cover were site characteristics that influenced the occupancy of the greatest numbers of individual species. In addition, citizen scientists improved their knowledge of bird and butterfly ecology, became more familiar with city natural areas, felt more connected to nature, and reported an increased interest in getting involved with conservation initiatives as a result of participating in the program. Our project is closely linked to an ongoing community planning process, which aims to maintain connections between people and nature and preserve high-quality natural areas as the city grows. We will conclude by highlighting specific ways the project’s results are being applied to land-use policy, planning decisions, and management actions, and how it can serve as a relevant model for other communities facing similar challenges.

Access Full Text

A full-text copy of this article may be available. Please email the WCS Library to request.



Back

PUB26812