Conservation or Preservation

Conservation and preservation are two tools for environmental protection. They are similar, and many people use the terms interchangeably. The term “conservation” is most frequently used, however. What are the differences, though?

First we’ll look to the federal government for the differences. The US Forest Service practices conservation, while the National Park Service practices preservation. Both agencies protect natural resources, but in different ways and for different reasons.

National Forests were set aside and are managed for conservation. For the most part, they are working forests. The resource (timber) is being conserved- managed logging that ensures there will always be a supply. Certain areas are off-limits to logging for various reasons such as habitat protection or recreation.

National Parks were created “for the benefit and enjoyment of the people”, and in the early days pretty much any enjoyment was acceptable, right up to feeding the bears. As we’ve discovered what damage we’ve caused to the environment, NPS cares less about having all the fun and more about preserving ecosystems and ecological processes. In this sense, preservation- protecting and maintaining the environment- is what many people see as conservation.

The environmental toolbox also includes restoration and enhancement. Restoration is returning a damaged or degraded ecosystem to its former glory. This is a difficult task and rarely achieves perfection because nature is much better at building a system than we are at replicating one. An example of a successful restoration project is at Washington’s Billy Frank Jr Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge. The original coastal wetlands were diked and drained for agriculture. In recent years, the dikes were removed and the tide was allowed to reclaim its former marsh. Salmon took advantage of the new channels that formed. Shorebirds enjoy having a shore again.

Incoming tide at Nisqually's restored tidal wetlands

Enhancement makes improvements to a functional ecosystem. For an example, we’ll return to Washington and visit a tributary of the Nisqually River, the Mashel River. Also a salmon-bearing river, a coalition of public and private agencies put artificial log jams in the river to improve habitat for juvenile salmon. Large woody debris adds nutrients to the river and also creates slower moving, deep pools that give fish a place to rest and hide during flood events. The log jams also reduce erosion by forcing the water to slow down.

Engineered log jam on the Mashel River

You can see an area of calmer water behind the log jam

Even without owning lots of land rich with natural resources, you can still practice conservation and preservation. Conserve water, soil, fuel, and energy. Preserve or enhance the ecology of your property. Resources are available if you need guidance. Ask me for details!