The first field guide to all of Vermont's natural communities

The earth is continuously changing and evolving--yet it is unclear how environmental changes will affect us in years to come. What changes are inevitable? What changes, if any, are beneficial? And what can we do as citizens of this planet to protect it and our future generations? The author offers compelling answers to these questions in this book. Providing many insights into ecology and the processes that keep the world functioning, this important guide introduces observations that underlie arguments about all aspects of the natural environment--including both global and local issues. (Midwest).

This text provides a synthesis of the existing field of wetland ecology using a few central themes, including key environmental factors that produce wetland community types and some unifying problems such as assembly rules, restoration and conservation.

Made up of a bibliography and a directory of contacts.

The need for improved water resource protection, beginning with grassroots action, is urgent. The water we use depends on networks of wetlands, streams, and watersheds. Land-use activities, however, are changing these natural systems. Often these changes result in ecological damage, flooding, water pollution, and reduced water supply. We need a healthy environment that sustains our personal and community health; we also need vibrant and sustainable economic development that does not destroy the benefits we derive from nature. Our ability to accomplish both depends on how well we can "connect the drops." In this book, Karen Schneller-McDonald presents the basics of water resource protection: ecology and watershed science; techniques for evaluating environmental impacts; obstacles to protection and how to overcome them; and tips for protection strategies that maximize chances for success. Schneller-McDonald makes clear the important connections among natural cycles, watersheds, and ecosystems; the benefits they provide; and how specific development activities affect water quality and supply. The methods described in Connecting the Drops have broad application in diverse geographic locations. The environmental details may differ, but the methods are the same. For water resource managers and concerned citizens alike, Connecting the Drops helps readers interpret scientific information and contextualize news media reports and industry ads—ultimately offering "how to" guidance for developing resource protection strategies.

Discusses the sources of water, the importance of water in sustaining life, threats to Earth's water supply and ways in which children around the world are taking action to protect this vital natural resource.