APPLYING THE BIOSPHERE RESERVE CONCEPT TO A GREATER ECOSYSTEM - THE SAN-JUAN MOUNTAIN AREA OF COLORADO AND NEW-MEXICO

Large nature reserves are needed to conserve biological diversity. The Greater San Juan Mountain Area, covering some 66,000 km2 in Colorado and New Mexico, would qualify as such a large nature reserve. It includes a broad representation of native species and natural communities of the southern Rocky Mountains, and preliminary analysis suggests that it is suitable for restoring the region's megafauna, including grizzly bear, grey wolf, and bison. Landownership is 62% public, 26% private, and 12% Native American, and the area supports traditional Anglo, Hispanic, and Native American cultures. Because of the area's diverse natural, economic, and cultural features, the envisioned reserve described here is based on the biosphere reserve model. Economic development could emphasize land-based tourism and recreation, forest products recycling, renewable energy resource development, and other activities compatible with a large nature reserve.