Managed rewilding

Managed rewilding is an approach that involves restoring ecosystems and allowing natural processes to take place with minimal human intervention. It aims to reverse land degradation by reintroducing native species, recreating habitats, and promoting ecological balance. 

1. Reintroduction of keystone species: Rewilding projects often focus on reintroducing keystone species, which play critical roles in maintaining the balance of ecosystems. For instance, the reintroduction of wolves in Yellowstone National Park in the United States had a profound impact on the ecosystem. The wolves controlled the population of herbivores like elk, which had been overgrazing the vegetation. As a result, vegetation recovered, soil erosion decreased, and stream channels stabilized.

2. Habitat restoration: Rewilding involves restoring degraded habitats to their natural state, which helps in preventing land degradation. One example is the restoration of wetlands. Wetlands act as natural water filters, absorbing pollutants and preventing soil erosion. By restoring wetlands, water quality improves, and erosion is reduced. This approach has been implemented in various regions worldwide, such as the restoration of the Florida Everglades in the United States.

3. Regeneration of forests: Forests are vital for preventing land degradation, as they stabilize soils, regulate water flow, and provide habitats for numerous species. Rewilding projects often focus on restoring degraded forests through activities such as tree planting and natural regeneration. An example is the restoration of the Loess Plateau in China, where large-scale reforestation efforts have successfully reduced soil erosion, improved water availability, and restored biodiversity.

4. Grazing management: Rewilding can also involve implementing better grazing management practices to prevent overgrazing and land degradation. For instance, in some areas, introducing rotational grazing systems and adjusting livestock stocking rates can help mimic natural grazing patterns, allowing vegetation to recover and soil to regenerate. This approach has been applied in different regions, such as the Savory Institute's Holistic Planned Grazing method in various grasslands worldwide.

5. Reintroduction of ecosystem engineers: Some rewilding initiatives focus on reintroducing species that act as ecosystem engineers, shaping the landscape and promoting biodiversity. For example, the reintroduction of beavers in certain areas helps restore wetland habitats by building dams and creating ponds. Their activities slow down water flow, increase water retention, and reduce erosion, ultimately halting land degradation.