The Ecology of Hope
By Tricia Shoblom

5-11-99

The ecology of hope is not only the title of a well-written book, but a phrase that exemplifies the changing attitude and belief systems of people in reguards to sustainable ecosystems. What tends to be an overwhelming problem globally, becomes in many ways, simplified when broken down into confined areas, and when local people start to take initiative.

Perhaps the singal-most important step in achieving sustainability is the willingness to participate. Many examples were expressed in this book of people who were finally willing to listen, learn and accept new ideas that were at times out of their range of comfort.

As with the salmon crisis in the Pacific Northwest, many of the " interest parties" have an unwillingness to compromise for the sake of the resource. Unfortunately, many of the parties concerned are only now beginning to realize that their impacts on watershed ecosystems are having far-reaching consequences, both environmentally and economically.

If a sustainability plan for salmonid populations and their ecosystems were to be developed, it would have to entail very strict fishing, logging, development restrictions.

If deemed necessary, complete closure of any activity harming salmonid populations would be closed at any given time. Whatsmore, all parties would have to adhere to the decisions, with no exceptions. Though a rather harsh recovery plan, economic viability would be the greatest obstacle to overcome. From an economic standpoint, many areas in the Pacific Northwest could incorporate eco-tourism, as did several of the towns featured in the book. Many of the jobs lost to decreased industry ( fishing, farming, and foresty ) could be re-interpreted as jobs for the environment, such as rehabilitating riparian zones with native plants, or perhaps turning portions of farmland and forest into scientific field labs, as well as points of interest for tourist. Life on this planet is constantly changing, as are belief systems. Perhaps the most significant lesson to be learned from the stories shared in this book is that one person can make a difference, but an entire community can make a world of difference.