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Saturday July 28, 2001
How does nature influence our culture? What is biodiversity
and why is it important to Pittsburgh's quality of life? 93 community
members came to discuss these issues and more.
Information on the 3r2n 2000 Biotic Assessment was
presented during a boat tour of the riverbanks of the Monongahela
River. Botanist, Biologists, and Geologists also spoke about what
biodiversity is and how it plays a crucial role in urban life
for this region. Using the Monongahela River as an example, we
discussed the significance of native and introduced plants, the
riverbank as habitat, and how urban ecosystems function. Additionally,
we discussed how biodiversity can be understood as an integral
part of our city's infrastructurs, how biodiversity contributes
to quality of life, and possible ways to re-evaluate riverbank
management. Participants engaged in discussions about the opportunities
and problems they identify as significant to the restoration and
preservation of Pittsburgh's biodiversity as well as the meaning
and application of ecological restoration within an urban context.
Specific options for involvement with local organizations were
identified, and sites for either conservation, restoration or
integrated public/private development were also identified.
Local Participants

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