Developing integrated ecosystem indices

摘要: Enabling ecosystem-based management requires, among other things, reaching a scientifically based consensus with respect to the key characteristics of sustainable ecosystem capable supporting those levels services desired by society. To determine and convey whether an is in fact approaching this goal implies developing indicators that capture status both natural societal aspects system. That said, consistent useful for system requires resolving disparate perspectives inconsistent terminology between human dimensions scientists keeping number manageably few, without oversimplifying highly complex ecosystem. accomplish we employed “recursive relationship” approach defined (and redefined) variables, indicators, indices along sliding hierarchy from measurable parameters aggregated indices. illustrate it applied herein index (recreational quality), sciences (water column). This facilitated development parsimonious set high-level together constitute report card integrating related perspective, while maintaining all information at lower necessary inform specific decisions.