Wildlife Innovation and Longevity Driver (WILD) Act - Summer

Team Members: Joan Coker, Julia DeVito, Lauren Harper (Deputy Manager), Janna Herndon, Patrick Iler (Manager), Devika Suraj Kaul, Risalat Khan, Sarangadev Krishnan, Mingjun Li, Julie Manoharan, Ilana Z Rubin, Kelsey Wooddell 

Biodiversity loss driven by invasive species, wildlife trafficking, and habitat destruction threatens ecosystems and species survival in the United States and globally. Invasive species disrupt ecological balance and cause economic damage exceeding $120 billion annually, while illegal wildlife trade generates billions in illicit revenue and accelerates species extinction. Habitat loss further reduces biodiversity and weakens ecosystem resilience, undermining ecosystem services essential for human wellbeing. The WILD Act addresses these challenges through coordinated conservation funding, expanded invasive species management, habitat restoration programs, and incentives for technological innovation in conservation.

Evaluation finds that strengthening funding mechanisms and encouraging innovation can improve wildlife conservation outcomes while supporting ecosystem restoration and long-term biodiversity protection. Programs that engage private landowners in habitat restoration expand conservation beyond public lands and improve ecological connectivity. However, conservation efforts must balance environmental protection with economic and social considerations, including impacts on land use and local livelihoods. Measuring success requires long-term monitoring of species populations, habitat recovery, and ecosystem health indicators. By integrating research funding, habitat protection, and technological innovation, the WILD Act offers a comprehensive strategy to address biodiversity decline and promote sustainable ecosystem management.

Learn more about the MPA-ESP Workshop in Applied Earth Systems Management.