On the conservation value of historic canals for aquatic ecosystems
2020
Lin, Hsien-Yung | Cooke, Steven J. | Wolter, Christian | Young, Nathan | Bennett, Joseph R.
While fragmentation and habitat loss due to water infrastructure threaten freshwater biodiversity worldwide, historic canals have the potential to contribute to both cultural heritage and biodiversity conservation. Shifting management objectives regarding historic canals from development to recreation and conservation offer opportunities for achieving conservation targets in these anthropogenic systems. However, managing historic canals often involves multiple objectives (e.g., nature conservation vs historic preservation). We reviewed ecological studies in various types of canal systems, examined the potential of historic canals to contribute to biodiversity conservation, and provided suggestions to promote biodiversity conservation given the opportunities and challenges in canal management. Canal characteristics (e.g., size, main use, surrounding environment, physical and hydrological properties) can be used to qualify or quantify their potential conservation value and risk. Changing management regimes to mimic natural flow, enhance habitat complexity, and modify connectivity could improve ecosystem functions and services in canals. To achieve conservation potential of historic canals, studies are required to fill knowledge gaps and to understand trade-offs among often competing objectives. The use of decision analysis such as structured decision making allows managers to incorporate multiple objectives, evaluate trade-offs, and address uncertainties in historic canal management.
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