Chapters 8 and 9 of Rambunctious Garden by Emma Marris discuss designer ecosystems and conservation on lands that might not be viewed as ideal. In chapter 8, Marris discusses designer ecosystems. Designer ecosystems are ecosystems that are designed for a specific goal, such as nitrogen reduction or the preservation of an endangered species. Rewilding with proxy species and assisted migration create designer ecosystems. In chapter 9, Marris discusses conservation in areas that are not considered ideal, such as industrial centers and cities. She points out that nature and industry can coexist. This can be achieved by adding native plants to rooftops, planting species in unused corners of industrial sites, and recreating gardens. Marris ends chapter 9 by discussing reconciliation ecology, which is the science of inventing new habitats to conserve species diversity in areas that are heavily affected by humans. For example, Marris suggests turning a garden into a rambunctious space filled with native plants. She ends the chapter by pointing out that cities and urban areas can be some of the most diverse and beautiful places in the world.
I agree with Marris that designer ecosystems can be extremely effective. This is because creating a designer ecosystem is not nearly as expensive as trying to restore an ecosystem to a specific baseline. This is especially true when an ecosystem has experienced both biotic and abiotic changes. Once this has occurred, the ecosystem is at a point of no return and cannot be restored to the way it was. However, the problem with designer ecosystems is determining which goals are the most important for a particular habitat. Choosing one specific goal might cause harm in other areas. Since ecosystems are so unpredictable, adding or taking something away might have an adverse effect on another species in the ecosystem and might do more harm than good. Nevertheless, designer ecosystems can definitely help preserve endangered species.
I also agree with Marris that some lands must be unmanaged. This allows for evolution. If humans control everything in an ecosystem, they are acting as God. This will not allow for natural selection and evolution, and will ultimately decrease species diversity. Some species and ecosystems need to develop on their own. I also agree with Marris that parks should be surrounded by wild areas. This will create corridors and sustain animals with large ranges. Ultimately, this will increase species diversity.
The arguments that Marris makes in chapter 9 are particularly interesting. She talks about bringing “pavement, houses, and malls” as the foreground of nature in our minds. This is very difficult to do and requires a change in thought and philosophy. However, it is possible. Since the majority of the world’s population is urban, urban areas must be addressed. Increasing ecosystem services and species richness in these areas is crucial to maintaining a healthy Earth. However, I believe that incentives that reward people who help conservation might not be efficient. This costs a lot of taxpayer money; instead, it might be better to fine those who do not adhere to proper techniques.
In chapter 9, Marris suggests turning urban gardens into rambunctious spaces filled with native plants. Although this would be ideal to increase species diversity, I do not think that people would be willing to do it. Most people would not want to sacrifice the beauty of their garden for the greater good of the community. This will not only bring down the perceived beauty of the home, but it will also bring down the price of the home. Nevertheless, turning a garden into a wild space can definitely benefit the environment in a positive way and act as a model for ecologists everywhere.
