ABSTRACT
Each of the practices discussed in Chapter 4 and others that incorporate the principles of perennialism, minimal disturbance, and diversity can be adapted and implemented in a wide range of local ecosystems. In the United States, for example, technical assistance and žnancial resources for conservation and ecological restoration are available through several agencies of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and numerous state agencies, local boards, and conservation districts. The USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and Farm Service Agency (FSA) serve as accessible clearinghouses for information about conservation practices and programs. Information is available to anyone interested and can be obtained at local FSA and NRCS ofžces in every state and online.* In Canada, the Ministry of Natural Resources in each province provides access to information about conservation programs, technical assistance, and resources.† Information about and access to public conservation resources can be obtained from comparable departments and ministries in each nation. Protecting and enhancing public resources for natural resource conservation and improvement at local, regional, state, and international levels is the policy equivalent of improved land management practices; it is relatively inexpensive and can be utilized immediately because proven programs are in place.
