THE GREATER YELLOWSTONE SOCIAL SYSTEM

The Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem is a biological concept that designates an identifiable area in and around Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. Social systems have a close, profound relationship with the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Local towns and countries in the area are economically dependent on its resources; state and federal organizations legislate its fate. Local residents are simultaneously part of the ecosystem and yet distinct from it, a paradox with diverse implications. The human population in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem has been attracted to the area by beliefs and activities that distinguish them from residents elsewhere. Five zones, concentrically surrounding Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks, distinguish differences among populations. Residents of these zones vary in their attitudes and behaviors with regard to exploiting natural resources through their respective technologies and social organization. They also vary in how they use the area and are economically and politically linked to it. The vulnerability of the natural system to demands of these competing populations is described.