Includes bibliographical references and index.

"This book provides a comprehensive summary of the diverse ways in which nature disrupts humanity and how humans have coped. Burgeoning human numbers, shrinking resources, and intensification of the consequences of natural disturbances have produced a crisis of unparalleled proportions. By closely studying natural recovery from disturbances, a template for improving restoration of damaged lands has been produced. Written for ecologists, policy makers, and concerned citizens, the goal of this book is to show how relatively simple approaches to restoration can enhance both human wellbeing and that of the other species on the planet."--Jacket.