Kunkle, Lesli S.

This research investigates the current design and management approaches that work to maintain ecological integrity in small nature reserve parks (less than 100 acres) in urbanizing settings. It also asks how managers can address threats or opportunities beyond the site's boundaries.

Through a survey of literature and case studies, consultation with various conservation groups (including The Nature Conservancy, the Audubon Society, and the National Park Service), the author was able to identify general guidelines for small reserve/park management, later citing specific applications in the context of the Fern Cove site. One key issue was the integration of the social issues (human/urban concerns) with conservation issues. Fencing off reserve areas and denying human access, a practice from years past, will not preserve a site.

A list of methods of site assessment was constructed and included the following: 1. Identify management objectives. 2. Create a master plan. 3. Use ecological design principles in the application of the design. 4. Determine methods to monitor changes. (i.e. setting a barometer, such as LAC's, limits to acceptable change) 5. Identify the content (internal) and context (external) issues at the site.

This thesis offers a broad range of new approaches to management for citizens, managers and educators. Maintaining ecological integrity within the pressures of urbanization will continue to be difficult, but through ecologically sensitive design and management, a new respect and understanding of nature can be fostered in the urban community.