Introduction HistoryLegal Obligations ProblemsWolf Case Study
BENEFITS OF REINTRODUCTION
Introduction HistoryLegal Obligations ProblemsWolf Case Study
BENEFITS OF REINTRODUCTION
Cultural Benefits
Heroic
species are a symbol of the countryside and our natural heritage.
Our
duty to restore the damage done by human actions and replace lost species.
"We
have a moral and ethical obligation to reverse the degradation of the past"
(Trees for Life, 2002)
Reintroducing
species will increase tourism by encouraging visitors to the area bringing
benefits to the local economies.
Wolves
and other "dangerous" species may in particular attract visitors.
Ecological Benefits
Many
species play a vital role in the maintenance of ecosystems.
Enhancing
species diversity, developing habitats and as predators.
As
predators species encourage the healthy growth of prey populations.
For
example wolves if reintroduced could reduce the red deer population and
promote the restoration of native pinewoods (Spinney, 1995).
Promote
the long-term survival of species particularly important for species currently
in danger or under threat from ecological or human pressures.
May
be accompanied by restoration of suitable habitats e.g. expanding areas
of riparian woodland in conjunction with the reintroduction of beavers
(Trees for Life, 2002)
Benefits
to Riparian ecosystems
Felling
trees for dams provides a natural coppicing process
Beaver
ponds increase aquatic vegetation providing a food source for fish, amphibians,
birds and other species higher up the food chain e.g. otters and herons
Beaver
dams and ponds create a habitat for nesting birds.
Improve
the quality of the rivers through self purification and decreasing the
water flow.
