Dissertation
Using a Socioecological Framework to Conserve Native Species in an Agroecosystem
Washington State University
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), Washington State University
2023
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.7273/000005283
Abstract
Protected conservation areas are inadequate to preserve native species in the face of habitat loss and degradation. Approximately 90% of listed species are found in part or completely on private land. However, conservation on private land has unique challenges, necessitating the use of a socioecological framework to address conservation in agroecosystems. I apply this framework to form the foundation for conservation success in agroecosystems in western Washington. In Chapter 2, I conducted a systematic review of 115 studies that evaluated how cattle grazing affects butterfly communities and species. A majority of studies concluded that cattle grazing has either positive (n = 35) or inconclusive (n = 36) effects on grassland butterflies. Conclusions were heavily dependent upon management, environmental and evolutionary context. Low to moderate grazing intensity was the most beneficial management strategy for most butterflies.
In Chapter 3, I conducted a behavioral experiment with two common native butterfly species, silvery blues (Glaucopsyche lygdamus) and ochre ringlets (Coenonympha california) and compared movement parameters (step lengths, turning angles, and diffusion rates) between native prairies with no grazing; pastures under “conventional” management; and pastures under “conservation” management. I observed silvery blue females to have the lowest step lengths and diffusion rates in native prairies, indicating that prairies were high quality habitat. Step lengths and diffusion rates were intermediate in conservation grazing and highest in conventional grazing. I conclude that there is potential for conservation grazing to contribute to butterfly habitat in the landscape.
In Chapter 4, I surveyed livestock producers to better understand their perspectives on potential incentives for and barriers to implementing conservation strategies with their grazing operations. Direct financial assistance was the most highly-rated incentive, and potential loss of development rights with the presence of listed species was the most highly-rated barrier. Younger, more educated farmers were more likely to be interested in some incentives, though there was little difference in other incentives. I conclude that financial assistance programs for conservation grazing and outreach about programs that provide assurances against regulation are most likely to encourage conservation actions. Younger, more educated producers would likely be most receptive to conservation outreach efforts.
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Details
- Title
- Using a Socioecological Framework to Conserve Native Species in an Agroecosystem
- Creators
- Samantha Kate Bussan
- Contributors
- Cheryl B. Schultz (Advisor)Sarah T. Hamman (Committee Member)Leslie F. New (Committee Member)Jonah Piovia-Scott (Committee Member)
- Awarding Institution
- Washington State University
- Academic Unit
- Biological Sciences, School of
- Theses and Dissertations
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), Washington State University
- Publisher
- Washington State University
- Number of pages
- 131
- Identifiers
- 99901019837701842
- Language
- English
- Resource Type
- Dissertation