If sustainability is understood to mean the non-destructive co-existence of human society with the natural environment, then we need to understand and work on both parts of the equation, i.e. the reduction in destructive behaviors and the preservation of functioning ecosystems. Fragmentation of ecosystems in San Diego has resulted in listing of over 200 species of animal and plant species as endangered, rare, or sensitive. Small remnants, or “islands” of once extensive native ecosystems occur throughout the county, often in close proximity to dense populations and in complete isolation from other protected patches: these two factors are potentially detrimental to the long-term viability of these important ecosystem islands. Canyons among many residential areas remain undeveloped and potentially serve as corridors, providing connectivity, mobility of individuals, and gene flow. In San Diego, the extensive interweaving of developed and undeveloped areas provides opportunity to study the sustainability of the urban-nature balance.
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