NESTED CONCEPTS (GRAPHIC): How do we change what we are doing on and to the landscape? Everything comes down to one question: What is the number for the line item in a local government annual budget for community investment in maintenance and management of stream systems?
“The idea that nature provides “ecological services” is not intuitively understood by the public, elected representatives and asset managers. Because the concept is abstract, it requires a leap of faith for buy-in at an operational level in local government where numbers matter. This challenge accentuates the need for effective communication tools. The Nested Concepts graphic helps local governments move past the rhetoric and focus their attention on achieving desired outcomes through a sustained and affordable investment in restoration of streamside protection zones,” stated Kim Stephens.