A tree species called Torreya taxifolia, is said to “inspire more pity than awe” as a result of its unattractive appearance (Nijhuis 182). However, this unsightly tree has received a lot of attention, due to the fact that is it the latest victim of global climate change. Rising temperatures and drought, threaten the already fragile Floridian species which is also infected by disease. In order to save the species, many scientists want to transplant it into cooler northern climates, a process known as “assisted migration” (Nijhuis 183). This plan also has its share of critic. Many are concerned that Torreya taxifolia will become an invasive species in its new habitat, simply put the “unknowns are staggering” (Nijhuis 187). There is also the question of whether assisted migration may be “used to justify new habitat destruction” for species that already exist in areas (Nijhuis 190).
This dilemma is another issue that has manifested from the large problem of global warming. Nijhuis brings our attention to the Torreya taxifolia to demonstrate how damaged the environment is as a result of global warming. Furthermore, the story also illustrated how conservation efforts are becoming so drastic that some advocate translating entire species. Nijhuis assumes that by bringing this issue to light, Americans will react and become active participants in conservation efforts.
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Matt, I personally found this article to be very interesting for myself since last year I took an environmental course and we spoke about global warming for a good amount of the course. I feel that we should not move the trees since they are already infected with disease and even as healthy trees they impose a threat to the area which they are to be moved. Moving these trees it seems like will just be doing more harm then good. As for her thoughts about bringing this issue to light for people, I think that it is not the effort needed in order to get people moving about climate change. By telling the public that we might lose a species of tree in Florida is not enough to get people to care. Nijhuis needs to find a more compelling story is she is going to try and get people moving about our changing climate.
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