Managing for RADical ecosystem change: applying the Resist-Accept- Direct (RAD) framework

Authors

Abigail J. Lynch, US Geological Survey
Laura M. Thompson, US Geological Survey, University of Tennessee
Erik A. Beever, USGS, Montana State University
David N. Cole, Aldo Leopold Wilderness Research Institute
Augustin C. Engman, University of Tennessee, North Carolina State University
Cat Hawkins Hoffman, National Park Service
Stephen T. Jackson, USGS, University of Arizona
Trevor J. Krabbenhoft, University of Arizona
David J. Lawrence, National Park Service
Douglas Limpinsel, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Fisheries
Robert T. Magill, Coconino County Parks and Recreation
Tracy A. Melvin, Michigan State University
John M. Morton, US Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), Soldotna
Robert A. Newman, University of North Dakota
Jay O. Peterson, NOAA Fisheries, Office of Science and Technology
Mark T. Porath, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission
Frank J. Rahel, University of Wyoming
Gregor W. Schuurman, National Park Service
Suresh A. Sethi, Cornell University
Jennifer L. Wilkening, Southern Nevada Fish and Wildlife Office

Date of this Version

2021

Citation

Front Ecol Environ 2021; doi:10.1002/fee.2377

Comments

Open access

Abstract

Ecosystem transformation involves the emergence of persistent ecological or social–ecological systems that diverge, dramatically and irreversibly, from prior ecosystem structure and function. Such transformations are occurring at increasing rates across the planet in response to changes in climate, land use, and other factors. Consequently, a dynamic view of ecosystem processes that accommodates rapid, irreversible change will be critical for effectively conserving fish, wildlife, and other natural resources, and maintaining ecosystem services. However, managing ecosystems toward states with novel structure and function is an inherently unpredictable and difficult task. Managers navigating ecosystem transformation can benefit from considering broader objectives, beyond a traditional focus on resisting ecosystem change, by also considering whether accepting inevitable change or directing it along some desirable pathway is more feasible (that is, practical and appropriate) under some circumstances (the RAD framework). By explicitly acknowledging transformation and implementing an iterative RAD approach, natural resource managers can be deliberate and strategic in addressing profound ecosystem change.