The analysis and management of ecosystems rely increasingly on sound geographical knowledge. Ecosystem Geography is a landmark contribution which brings the geographer's tools - maps, scales, boundaries, and units - to the study of ecosystems. The author, a senior geographer and program manager with the U.S. Forest Service, has distilled more than two decades of research on ecosystem mapping and classification. His work has had a growing influence on how government and academic scientists are using ecological data to monitor biodiversity, manage land holdings, and interpret the results of climatic change. The book will be welcomed by ecologists, geographers, land and resource specialists, and anyone involved in the study or ecosystems.
From the reviews:
"An important book, richly illustrated with clear diagrams, maps, and photos. A major contribution to ecosystem ecology and an essential acquisition." (Choice)
"the first [book] to synthesize the available knowledge for ecosystem classification and mapping and to provide a general guide to its use-Foresters will find Ecosystem Geography a carefully compiled benchmark reference with an exhaustive bibliography on the state-of-the-art of ecosystem classification and its bearing on resource management." (Journal of Forestry)
"I would recommend this book to those with serious interest in physical geography-a good resource for those who teach physical geography." (Journal of Geography)
"The new 'ecosystem management' demands an understanding of ecosystems and the relationships between them. In short, it requires a sound geographical knowledge of ecosystems. Ecosystem Geography lays a firm foundation for such knowledge." (Progress in Physical Geography)
"The book is essential reading for ecologists and natural area managers interested in ecosystem management and understanding how their landscapes fit into the larger picture regionally, continentally, and globally." (Natural Areas Journal)
From the reviews of the second edition:
"In this second edition, Bailey ... clarifies original concepts, explains how boundaries of ecological units at the three scales can be mapped, contrasts genetic and empirical approaches to ecosystem classification, and discusses how climate change over time and human modifications influence ecosystem distribution and processes. ... The volume's excellent illustrations include maps, redrawn two-color diagrams, and photos. Summing Up: Essential. Upper-division undergraduate through professional ecology and resource management collections." (R. L. Smith, Choice, Vol. 47 (11), July, 2010)
"An important book, richly illustrated with clear diagrams, maps, and photos. A major contribution to ecosystem ecology and an essential acquisition." (Choice)
"the first [book] to synthesize the available knowledge for ecosystem classification and mapping and to provide a general guide to its use-Foresters will find Ecosystem Geography a carefully compiled benchmark reference with an exhaustive bibliography on the state-of-the-art of ecosystem classification and its bearing on resource management." (Journal of Forestry)
"I would recommend this book to those with serious interest in physical geography-a good resource for those who teach physical geography." (Journal of Geography)
"The new 'ecosystem management' demands an understanding of ecosystems and the relationships between them. In short, it requires a sound geographical knowledge of ecosystems. Ecosystem Geography lays a firm foundation for such knowledge." (Progress in Physical Geography)
"The book is essential reading for ecologists and natural area managers interested in ecosystem management and understanding how their landscapes fit into the larger picture regionally, continentally, and globally." (Natural Areas Journal)
From the reviews of the second edition:
"In this second edition, Bailey ... clarifies original concepts, explains how boundaries of ecological units at the three scales can be mapped, contrasts genetic and empirical approaches to ecosystem classification, and discusses how climate change over time and human modifications influence ecosystem distribution and processes. ... The volume's excellent illustrations include maps, redrawn two-color diagrams, and photos. Summing Up: Essential. Upper-division undergraduate through professional ecology and resource management collections." (R. L. Smith, Choice, Vol. 47 (11), July, 2010)