| As a new paradigm in conservation biology, the social-ecological systems (SES) framework acknowledges the complex linkages between people and ecosystems (Martín-López et al. 2009). SES are linked systems of people and nature, emphasizing that humans must be seen as a part of nature (Berkes and Folke 1998). By applying the SES framework, scientists and practitioners can implement conservation actions that satisfy both human and ecosystem needs (Wei et al. 2017). This thesis applies SES science and ecosystem service valuation tools to conservation efficiency evaluation. Land trust conservation easements have emerged as a strategy for private land conservation. These easements provide an opportunity to apply SES science and tools to conservation management assessment and planning. The Sagebrush Steppe Land Trust is the organization that manages conservation easements within the Portneuf watershed, and this thesis specifically evaluated their conservation efficiency, and more specifically, aimed to prioritize future priority areas for conservation easements.
Key Words: conservation, land trust, conservation easement, social-ecological systems, ecosystem services, Portneuf watershed |