Uploaded on 2019-11-23 by Ramir Antonio

Compulsory Exercise 4 Ecosystem My Area - California Ecosystem A. Water Supply (Provisioning Services) Water is a physical necessity for life, and a central organizer of ecosystems and landscapes. Most California water begins as precipitation or snow pack in high elevation areas, which is then transported by rivers, reservoirs, and built infrastructure to downstream users. B. Climate Stability (Regulating Services) California’s economy depends on a stable climate. Irrigated agriculture, in particular, is acutely sensitive to climate change. Water systems are premised upon reliable annual precipitation, and many crops have specific sensitivities to temperature variation. C. Recreation and Tourism (Cultural Services) Many of the cultural services provided by working landscapes are difficult to price, but outdoor recreation has substantial and measurable economic impacts. D. Habitat Biodiversity (Supporting Services) Biodiversity represents and involves the supporting services upon which the ecosystem functions, including processes of primary production, nutrient cycling and soil formation. Without ongoing nutrient cycling and soil formation—which depend on ecological actors ranging from bacteria to livestock—even the best farmland will lose its productive capacity. Similarly, plant growth depends in part on pollination and pest control, which can be aided by providing habitat for wild bees and beneficial predators.