title: Cooperative Extension: A Model of Science-Practice Integration for Ecosystem Restoration.
abstract: Restoration ecology is a science, driven by practical application. Despite the well-recognized disconnect between the science and practice of ecological restoration, there is a lack of practical solutions. In 2014, US agriculture marked the 100th anniversary of the Cooperative Extension Service, providing a timely reminder that the divide between science and practice can be bridged successfully. Major restoration efforts are underway across the globe and integrated science-practice communication is required to avoid project failure and a significant waste of resources. Here, we propose a three-tiered approach, re-emphasizing the integration of science-based practice in restoration utilizing the structure, function, and potential for success of the Cooperative Extension Service of the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) as a model for connecting science and practice in ecosystem restoration.
authors.affiliation: Kings Park and Botanic Garden, West Perth, WA 6005, Australia; University of Western Australia, School of Plant Biology, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia. Electronic address: ericadavid89@gmail.com.
authors.forename: Erica
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: David
authors.affiliation: Kings Park and Botanic Garden, West Perth, WA 6005, Australia; University of Western Australia, School of Plant Biology, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia; Department of Environment and Agriculture, Curtin University, Bentley, WA 6012, Australia.
authors.forename: Kingsley W
authors.initials: KW
authors.lastname: Dixon
authors.affiliation: Institute of Ecology and Evolution, University of Bern, Bern 3012, Switzerland.
authors.forename: Myles H M
authors.initials: MHM
authors.lastname: Menz
mesh_terms: D003247:Conservation of Natural Resources; D004463:Ecology; D017753:Ecosystem; D008962:Models, Theoretical
keywords: communication; cooperative extension service; education; restoration ecology; science–practice gap