Gaworecki, Mike. “Yosemite as a Case Study in Protected Area Downsizing and Habitat Fragmentation.” Mongabay, 26 Aug. 2016. Web. 28 Aug. 2016. <file://localhost/Users/tatetussing/Desktop/Yosemite%20as%20a%20case%20study%20in%20protected%20area%20downsizing%20and%20habitat%20fragmentation.html>.
This article explores the history of Yosemite national park and uses it as an example of how changes to a protected area can impact habitat and therefore biodiversity. protected area downgrading, downsizing, and degazettement (PADDD) is the term used to describe the changes made to protected areas over time. Even though Yosemite and other preserves are protected they still can be changed for many reason.
It is unjustifiable to change protected areas that have become safe havens for wildlife and overall biodiversity. Although there is an increasing demand for agriculture and infrastructure the value of Yosemite is not quantifiable but it is very noticeable when it is gone.
This is a very controversial topic that I was unaware was actually a big deal today. There is a lot of wildlife and ecosystems that are in these protected areas. I do think that certain areas that are preserved should stay preserved but them comes the question: when is ok or justified to go into these preserved areas? There are good arguments on both sides.
How are areas such as Yosemite being changed? You would think protected lands like that would have laws against that sort of thing. Should humans not be allowed in protected areas at all?