A framework for sustainable invasive species management: Environmental, social, and economic objectives

Diane L. Larson, Laura Phillips-Mao, Gina Quiram, Leah Sharpe, Rebecca Stark, Shinya Sugita, Annie Weiler

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

150 Scopus citations

Abstract

Applying the concept of sustainability to invasive species management (ISM) is challenging but necessary, given the increasing rates of invasion and the high costs of invasion impacts and control. To be sustainable, ISM must address environmental, social, and economic factors (or " pillars" ) that influence the causes, impacts, and control of invasive species across multiple spatial and temporal scales. Although these pillars are generally acknowledged, their implementation is often limited by insufficient control options and significant economic and political constraints. In this paper, we outline specific objectives in each of these three " pillars" that, if incorporated into a management plan, will improve the plan's likelihood of sustainability. We then examine three case studies that illustrate how these objectives can be effectively implemented. Each pillar reinforces the others, such that the inclusion of even a few of the outlined objectives will lead to more effective management that achieves ecological goals, while generating social support and long-term funding to maintain projects to completion. We encourage agency directors and policy-makers to consider sustainability principles when developing funding schemes, management agendas, and policy.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)14-22
Number of pages9
JournalJournal of Environmental Management
Volume92
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 2011

Bibliographical note

Funding Information:
In 1991 the Minnesota’s Department of Natural Resources (DNR) began a comprehensive AIS program. The DNR’s program is authorized by legislation (Minnesota Statutes, chapter 84D) and continually funded through surcharges on watercraft and non-resident fishing licenses and the state’s general fund. This institutionalized long-term funding and political authority allow the program to develop management plans with confidence that they can be carried out to completion.

Keywords

  • Invasive species
  • Management
  • Objectives
  • Sustainability

PubMed: MeSH publication types

  • Journal Article

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