Publisher's Synopsis
Over a decade ago, an initiative emerged to link the fragmented wildlands and protected areas of Mesoamerica, the region including southern Mexico and Central America, through corridors of natural and restored habitats, so the rich flora and fauna could disperse and migrate between North and South America. In 1997, the region's Heads of State signed a Resolution to establish the Mesoamerican Biological Corridor (MBC). International agencies, private foundations, and conservation groups have committed several hundred million dollars to build the MBC, however, progress has been slowed by a lack of analysis and policy options for MBC implementation. Defining Common Ground for the Mesoamerican Biological Corridor is the first in a series of Notes intended to catalyze actions necessary to plan and implement the MBC. This publication introduces the MBC Initiative, examines its implications for major stakeholder groups, and identifies some of the most pressing challenges that must be addressed if the Mesoamerican Biological Corridor is to be translated into a widely supported and effectively implemented program of action.;It is hoped that this Note, and those that follow, will help readers articulate their own expectations of the economic, social, and environmental outcomes they desire from the MBC, and further bring those targets to fruition.
