In The Science of Conservation Planning, three of the nation's leading conservation biologists explore the role of the scientist in the planning process and present a framework and guidelines for applying science to regional habitat-based conservation planning. Chapters consider history and background of conservation planning efforts, criticisms of science in conservation planning, principles of conservation biology that apply to conservation planning, detailed examination of conservation plans, and specific recommendations for all parties involved. The Science of Conservation Planning will serve as a model for the application of conservation biology to real-life problems, and can lead to the development of scientifically and politically sound plans that are likely to achieve their conservation goals, even in cases where biological and ecological information is limited.