Embracing Disturbance: a New Paradigm for the Precautionary Principle in Riparian Zones

Abstract

Agee will question the precautionary principle, which works well in some situations, but may lead to negative results. As an example, he will discuss fire regimes in riparian zones. He will argue that in dynamic systems, choices must be evaluated in a risk management context: place, history, current condition, and risk must all be considered. "No action" must be assessed as compared to "active management."