Optimization of an ecological integrity monitoring program for protected areas: Case study for a network of national parks

Abstract

Over the last few years, several of the world’s national park networks have implemented ecological integrity monitoring programs. These programs are based on a series of indicators to detect changes in ecosystem integrity. There are many scientific and logistical challenges in developing these programs due to limits in both our knowledge of ecosystems functioning and the resources for implementing such programs. Thus, the relatively quick and simple implementation of many monitoring programs has been to the detriment of their scientific validity. Few studies have focused on evaluating an entire monitoring program. This project presents an approach to evaluate the ecological and statistical relevance of ecosystem integrity indicators measured within a program with the goal of iterative optimization. The approach is based on three complementary elements: (1) spatial characterization of park ecosystems based on the classification of satellite imagery, (2) ecological validation of indicators based on ecosystem conceptual models and (3) statistical validation of indicators based on analyses of statistical power. This innovative approach allows a systematic, quantified, reproducible and generalizable review of the indicators of an ecological integrity monitoring program. It provides managers with an overview of the spatial representativeness of indicators, their ecological and statistical relevance according to different parameters such as the period monitored, the amount of change to be detected, and the degree of significance. Thus, the approach identifies monitoring gaps and offers various alternatives for improving sampling. The approach was developed and tested in the network of Quebec national parks, more specifically in the Frontenac, Jacques-Cartier and Bic national parks. The results clearly identify the strengths and weaknesses of the current program in place and possible improvements are proposed for these parks. This approach is a relevant tool for park networks, particularly for those that have limited resources for monitoring ecological integrity.

Effects of site‐selection bias on estimates of biodiversity change

“…Therefore, established monitoring sites could be in conflict with the need for representative sites for inference (Théau et al. 2018). Additionally, results based on data from within a national park may not be representative of the surrounding landscape.…”

“…This was exemplified by the common practice of monitoring sites established nonrandomly in the past, typically because they are either pristine or threatened (Supporting Information). Therefore, established monitoring sites could be in conflict with the need for representative sites for inference (Théau et al 2018). Additionally, results based on data from within a national park may not be representative of the surrounding landscape.…”

A Tool for the Assessment of Forest Biomass as a Source of Rural Sustainable Energy in Natural Areas in Honduras

“…Therefore, if appropriate and timely management actions are not taken, the conservation target "Forest" will be vulnerable to severe degradation. Therefore, in cases like this, Theau, Trottier, and Graillon [70] suggest that a monitoring and restoration program is needed which involves local communities in the sustainable management of forest biomass.…”

Are 'conserved areas' conservation's most compelling story?

“…3. Ecological integrity is an appealing concept, increasing in usage, but challenging to measure (Timko & Satterfield, 2008;Woodley, 2010;Brown & Williams, 2016;Wurtzebach & Schultz, 2016;Théau et al, 2018). There are a number of definitions of ecological integrity.…”