The Silver Lining: The Benefits of Natural Disasters

Abstract

In this welcome and accessible volume, Seth Reice, a stream ecologist who specializes in the study of disturbance effects on community structure, explains to the informed nonspecialist how important are disturbances to the health and diversity of ecosystems. It is important to note that this book is intended to enlighten a lay audience; it is not intended strictly or even primarily for forest scientists or ecologists. And therein lies its potential value: by making the benefits of natural disasters clear to the nonspecialist, Reice communicates how, by embracing the inevitability of natural disturbances and recognizing their benefits for natural systems, we can adopt more sustainable policies, behaviors, and attitudes. I wholeheartedly applaud this goal, and believe as a whole that Reice's book is an excellent step in that direction.