Real Life Adventures

Preservation and Conservation both work towards a common goal, but approach it very differently. For instance, preservation opposes utilitarian uses or preserved nature. This biocentric view is heavily influenced by transcendentalism. John Muir is often associated as the figure head of the Preservation Movement. Conservation was guided mostly by the politically powerful Gifford Pinchot. With the anthropocentric views of the Conservationists, many natural resource industries such as ranching, mining, timber, and water companies were aligning themselves with this group.

Both preservation and progressive conservation views are demonstrated when it comes to the Pantanal Wetlands in South America. These wetlands have been drained and used for agriculture in the past, but now experts believe that this has caused heavy floods in the rainy seasons, and a lack of water during the dry ones. Currently the Brazilian Ministry of Science and Technology is conducting research to confirm the importance of these wetlands.

I believe that the remaining wetlands should be preserved. The land should not be used for additional agriculture, especially if heavy flooding and droughts are linked to the lack of wetlands in the area. Ultimately, I feel some of the land will be preserved, but only after extensive research and heavy backing from private or nonprofit preservation groups.

For more information and the whole story check out:http://www.enn.com/ecosystems/article/37797