Appendix 3
Our model (Fig. 1), when implemented for our conservation strategies to effect biological conditions and the subsequent information transfer activities provides the foundation for applying adaptive management in a cyclical nature. Through this framework, annual action plans are implemented involving inventory, monitoring, research, and restoration strategies. Although it is not outlined directly in this document, we are developing models for every conservation target (Appendix 3) so we can track the success and progress of our efforts and how we adjust to various external changes. We then conduct assessments to support the transfer of relevant information to social-cultural decision makers. In a practical sense, this most often involves communication with Tribal leadership, federal regulatory agencies, and funding entities- but we also perform outreach to tribal community members and schools. Social-cultural decision making then shapes our conservation priorities and strategies based upon ongoing impacts to Cherokee cultural and ecosystem services. Conservation strategies for specific targets can be maintained (i.e. continued monitoring of biodiversity indices), expanded (i.e. monitoring transitioning to research) or reduced (i.e. species no longer specifically monitored due to successful recovery efforts). From these decisions EBCI Natural Resources develops revised status updates of Cherokee Species of Concern as appropriate and develops updated annual conservation work plans based upon available budgets and operational capacities. Currently, most of our efforts fit into baseline inventory and monitoring where we simply determine population presence and stability. Future efforts will have more research and active management areas that respond to various external activities or changes (i.e. natural biological or social and cultural decisions). These potential changes and our active management is summarized in Appendix 3. Appendix 3 provides a baseline for future revisions of our work- that are functionally iterative and adaptive in nature. We are planning periodic assessments where we learn from previous work with a goal to remove at risk species and develop best management practice for others.
Over the years, our management has shifted due to both changes in society and our biological conditions or the services they provide. To paint the picture of how we adaptively manage following changes, we provide examples here.
2025 NC Wildlife Action Plan
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