436 Monitoring Threatened Species and Ecological Communities
declines in species or ecological communities. These five principles can be used to
overhaul and improve existing monitoring programs, as well as assist in the
development of new programs. Implementation of these principles does not
necessarily require more effort, but rather demands more clarity around the
objectives, questions, decisions, roles, responsibilities and deliverables of the
monitoring program. Improved clarity will ensure a greater likelihood of achieving
conservation outcomes. Importantly, responsibility lies with scientists,
practitioners and managers to continue to promote and demonstrate the
importance and multiple values of monitoring programs for threatened species.
Robust monitoring will not prevent species extinctions; however, when
conservation actions and decisions are underpinned by accurate and timely
information, monitoring can lead to informed management and enhanced
conservation of threatened biodiversity.
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