Book contents
- Rebuilding an Ecosystem
- Ecology, Biodiversity and Conservation
- Rebuilding an Ecosystem
- Copyright page
- Dedication
- Contents
- Contributors
- Foreword
- Preface
- Acknowledgements
- Abbreviations
- Part IBeginnings
- Part IIResults
- Part IIIReflections and the Future
- 20The Managers’ Perspective
- 21Lessons Learned from Integrating Research and Restoration
- Appendices
- Index
- References
21 - Lessons Learned from Integrating Research and Restoration
from Part III - Reflections and the Future
Published online by Cambridge University Press: 24 July 2026
Book contents
- Rebuilding an Ecosystem
- Ecology, Biodiversity and Conservation
- Rebuilding an Ecosystem
- Copyright page
- Dedication
- Contents
- Contributors
- Foreword
- Preface
- Acknowledgements
- Abbreviations
- Part IBeginnings
- Part IIResults
- Part IIIReflections and the Future
- 20The Managers’ Perspective
- 21Lessons Learned from Integrating Research and Restoration
- Appendices
- Index
- References
Summary
This final chapter reflects on two decades of ecological restoration and research at Mulligans Flat Woodland Sanctuary (MFWS), highlighting its evolution into a globally significant rewilding experiment. It outlines the integration of science, community engagement and land management to restore box-gum grassy woodlands and reintroduce species like eastern bettongs and eastern quolls. The chapter emphasises the importance of long-term partnerships, adaptive management and cumulative knowledge in achieving restoration goals. It discusses the expansion of the sanctuary, the role of Traditional Ecological Knowledge and the emergence of ‘smart conservation’ using digital technologies and ecosystem modeling. Mulligans Flat Woodland Sanctuary is positioned as a model for whole ecosystem restoration and is a candidate for a global conservation ‘super-site’. Future directions include continued species translocations, expanded social science research and diversified funding strategies. The chapter concludes with key lessons for integrating research and restoration to address the biodiversity crisis.
Keywords
RewildingLong-term ecological researchMulligans Flat Woodland SanctuaryEcosystem restorationShifting baseline syndromeSpecies translocationTrophicSmart conservationAdaptive managementTraditional Ecological KnowledgeDasyurus viverrinusBettongia gaimardiConservation partnershipsBiodiversity crisis responseReintroduction
Information
- Type
- Chapter
- Information
- Rebuilding an EcosystemIntegrating Applied Research and Restoration, pp. 442 - 466Publisher: Cambridge University PressPrint publication year: 2026
References
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