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Urban Ecosystems

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01-03-2009

Ecological research can augment restoration practice in urban areas degraded by invasive species—examples from Chicago Wilderness

Authors: Liam Heneghan, Lauren Umek, Brad Bernau, Kevin Grady, Jamie Iatropulos, David Jabon, Margaret Workman

Published in: Urban Ecosystems | Issue 1/2009

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Abstract

Urban biodiversity conservation needs a firm scientific foundation, one that draws upon active and regionally calibrated research programs. Until recently this foundation has not existed. In this paper we examine the way in which the emerging discipline of restoration ecology in an urban context can learn from the experiences of ongoing restoration projects and in turn how novel insights from research of urban soils can help these projects define and reach their goals. Limitations on collaboration between academic researchers and practitioners continues be problematic. We discuss a model whereby this impediment may be removed. A case study of Rhamnus cathartica, an invader of Midwestern woodlands which modifies some important soil ecosystem properties will be used to illustrate the potential for engagement between research and practice.

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Title: Ecological research can augment restoration practice in urban areas degraded by invasive species—examples from Chicago Wilderness
Authors: Liam Heneghan
Lauren Umek
Brad Bernau
Kevin Grady
Jamie Iatropulos
David Jabon
Margaret Workman
Publication date: 01-03-2009
Publisher: Springer US
Published in: Urban Ecosystems / Issue 1/2009
Print ISSN: 1083-8155
Electronic ISSN: 1573-1642
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11252-008-0057-8

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