Coexistence, in the context of wildlife conservation, is the philosophy where humans and wildlife can share a landscape such that both can benefit from it. However, fostering coexistence requires a change in human behavior, attitudes and practices, and such change must be encouraged and incentivized through policies. With Oregon and Washington wrapping up their 2022 short legislative session earlier this month, Defenders is taking a critical look at some of the wildlife policies that we are engaged in, and how these policies promote or impede coexistence.
Oregon’s 2022 legislative session lasted only a month, but coexistence emerged as a recurring theme. Urban development—including roadways and human settlements—is a modification of the landscape that only benefits people and poses a serious threat to wildlife who need to travel long distances in search of new territory, new mates, food and to escape harsh weather conditions and respond to climate change impacts.
Fostering Coexistence Through Better Policy in the Pacific Northwest
Oregon’s 2022 legislative session lasted only a month, but coexistence emerged as a recurring theme. Urban development—including roadways and human settlements—is a modification of the landscape that only benefits people and poses a serious threat to wildlife who need to travel long distances in search of new territory, new mates, food and to escape harsh weather conditions and respond to climate change impacts.
Fostering Coexistence Through Better Policy in the Pacific Northwest
