Question 1: Biodiversity: The variety of plant and animal life in a particular habitat or ecosystem. Provide an example of biodiversity in Yellowstone National Park.

Answer: Yellowstone is renowned for its diverse range of species including grizzly bears, wolves, elk, and numerous plant species.

Question 2: Sustainable Management: Practices that meet current needs without compromising future resources. Name a sustainable practice used in managing the Colorado River.

Answer: Implementing water rationing and promoting water-efficient agriculture to reduce over-extraction.

Question 3: Ecosystem Services: Benefits humans obtain from ecosystems, such as water purification or recreation. Give an example related to US national parks.

Answer: Recreation and tourism provide economic benefits, as seen in Yellowstone National Park.

Question 4: Conservation Area: A designated region set aside for the protection of wildlife and natural resources. Name a conservation area in the US.

Answer: Yellowstone National Park

Question 5: Overexploitation: The excessive use of natural resources, leading to depletion. How has overexploitation affected the Colorado River?

Answer: It has caused significant water shortages and environmental degradation due to high demand and diversion for irrigation and urban use.

Question 1: What is the primary goal of conservation efforts in US national parks like Yellowstone?

Answer: To protect biodiversity, ecosystems, and natural landscapes for future generations.

Question 2: Name two major threats to conservation in the Colorado River basin.

Answer: Overuse of water resources and climate change leading to reduced flow.

Question 3: Identify one legislation or policy in the US that supports conservation efforts.

Answer: The Endangered Species Act

Question 4: Describe one example of a successful conservation program in the US.

Answer: The reintroduction of wolves to Yellowstone has helped restore ecological balance.

Question 5: Explain the importance of biodiversity conservation in national parks.

Answer: Biodiversity conservation maintains ecosystem stability, resilience, and provides genetic resources.

Question 1: Based on the Yellowstone case study, identify two major conservation challenges faced by the park.

Answer: Managing overpopulation of elk affecting vegetation, and controlling the spread of invasive species.

Question 2: Analyze how reintroducing wolves has impacted Yellowstone’s ecosystem.

Answer: Wolves have helped regulate prey populations, leading to improved vegetation growth and increased biodiversity, demonstrating a trophic cascade.

Question 3: Discuss the economic benefits and environmental challenges associated with tourism in Yellowstone.

Answer: Tourism generates significant revenue but can lead to habitat disturbance, pollution, and infrastructure pressures if not managed sustainably.

Question 4: Evaluate the effectiveness of Yellowstone’s conservation policies in maintaining ecological balance.

Answer: Yellowstone’s policies have been largely effective in restoring key species like wolves and controlling overgrazing, but challenges such as invasive species and climate change require ongoing adaptive management.

Question 1: Explain why climate change poses a threat to conservation efforts in the Colorado River basin.

Answer: Climate change leads to reduced snowpack and earlier snowmelt, decreasing river flow, increasing water scarcity, and threatening aquatic ecosystems and agriculture dependent on the river.

Question 2: Analyse the causes of habitat fragmentation in US national parks and its impact on wildlife.

Answer: Causes include infrastructure development, tourism, and resource extraction, leading to isolated habitats, reduced genetic diversity, and increased vulnerability of species.

Question 3: Describe the process of ecological succession and its relevance to conservation areas.

Answer: Ecological succession is the natural gradual change in species composition in an ecosystem. It helps in restoring degraded areas and maintaining biodiversity in conservation zones.

Question 1: To what extent have conservation policies successfully restored ecological balance in Yellowstone National Park? Consider both achievements and ongoing challenges. (8-12 marks)

Answer: Conservation policies such as species reintroduction and habitat management have been successful in restoring ecological balance, evident in the recovery of wolves and vegetation. However, challenges like invasive species, climate change, and human impact require continuous adaptive strategies. Overall, Yellowstone exemplifies the positive impact of well-designed conservation efforts but highlights the need for ongoing vigilance and flexibility.

Question 2: Evaluate the effectiveness of water management strategies for the Colorado River in ensuring sustainable use for future generations. Consider social, economic, and environmental factors. (8-12 marks)

Answer: Water management strategies such as water quotas, reservoir regulation, and conservation campaigns have helped mitigate overuse, but growing demand, prolonged droughts, and climate change threaten sustainability. Balancing agricultural, urban, and ecological needs remains complex. While some measures have delayed shortages, comprehensive long-term solutions are necessary to ensure water security for future generations.