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Abstract

This fascinating article concludes that there are great opportunities for cities to become players in the nation's move toward ecosystem management. Certainly, problems arise when humans are injected into the ecosystem equation, and ecosystem management at the city level will not be easy. But the history of environmental regulation has taught us that making the easy choice does not always solve the problem. Further, limiting ecosystem management to rural and wilderness areas can only serve to further compartmentalize our already deeply fragmented environmental policies. Urban ecosystem management is not an oxymoron. It can be achieved at various levels by implementing two dominant principles. The first will require cities to confront and celebrate their unique places within ecosystems. This stands in sharp contrast to the patterns of post-war urban development that have resulted in the bland, homogenous cityscapes we know today. Second, cities must acknowledge that the human species dominates their eco-regions and must accordingly make ecosystem management choices that will enhance human health and spirit. Thus, the twin concepts that should guide urban ecosystem management are celebration of place and respect for human well-being. In order to put these concepts into practice city residents, planners, and elected officials need to experience their ecosystems and build upon that

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