Loop Diagrams

Question 1

Develop four general causal loop diagrams, one each for the four phases of the spread of nonnative forest insects and pathogens: Absent, Localized, Spreading, and Pervasive (see Lovett et al. Fig 2). For each diagram depict the appropriate policy(ies) that would reduce impacts. Provide supporting background discussion of the diagram, the technical viability of the policy, and the costs implications. Draw from your readings and class discussion.
Submission: Maximum paper length including diagrams and references: 10 pages, double spaced, 12-point font, minimum of 5 references, APA citation style.
Relevant readings: Chapter 2 de Vries Lovett et al. 2016. Nonnative forest insects and pathogens in the United States: Impacts and policy options. Ecological Applications 26(5):1437-1455

Question 2

1) Describe what you think is a way to make the Metropolitan Council more efficient

2) Describe what you think are strengths of the area’s habitat conservation efforts

3) The Twin Cities effort features an extensive resource inventorying and mapping effort, but leaves out a few resource categories. What are some of the resource categories that could be included in the inventorying efforts, and why are they important?

4) The council relies heavily on acquisition to propagate its conservation system. What do you think makes these acquisition efforts so successful? (ie through funding means and community participation?)

5) The Council’s Livable Communities program uses incentives to encourage responsible development and efficient land use, and it can be argued that it finds success through emphasizing human values. Describe some of the ways that human values were prioritized, and why you think it generated success.

6) Overall, what are your thoughts about this case study? Do you see any room for improvement, if so, where? Is there anything about its methodology you disagree with?