Evaluating conservation spending for species return: A retrospective analysis in California

摘要: Conservation spending in California, USA exceeds conservation expenditures many countries. To date, there has been no objective method to assess the efficiency of such for achieving species outcomes. We conducted first retrospective analysis spending, examining distribution $ 2.8 billion spent on land protection by state California and partners from 1990 2006. Using a return investment algorithm with as sole objective, we describe "cost-efficient" funding scenario that would have protected four times more distinct three threatened endangered compared observed allocation. Differences between species-diversity patterns reflect myriad objectives, beyond protecting species, state. Identifying cost-effective strategies are essential given need maintain diversity face global change.