DO OR DIE? As climate change threatens some of the national parks' most treasured species, scientists ponder a drastic strategy: moving plants and animals into new habitats to save them.

HABITATS; NATIONAL parks & reserves; SPECIES; CRAYFISH; CLIMATE change; CLIMATE change adaptation; PHYSICAL sciences

The article explores the concept of managed relocation as a response to climate change's impact on species in national parks. Managed relocation involves moving plants and animals to new habitats to protect them from climate change and invasive species. While controversial, this strategy is being considered to save at-risk species. However, there are practical constraints and risks involved, and scientists must carefully select which species to relocate. The article discusses the complexity of ecosystems and the potential negative consequences of moving species. The National Park Service has developed frameworks and tools to guide decision-making in response to ecosystem changes. The article highlights two case studies, the relocation of bull trout in Glacier National Park and the potential relocation of Joshua trees in Joshua Tree National Park, and mentions other parks considering similar moves. It also emphasizes the importance of genetic diversity and adaptation in preserving ecosystems in the face of climate change. [Extracted from the article]

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