2026/05/22 by Kathleen K Holland, Kathleen Krafte Holland, Tom Will +20
Environmental Science · Psychology · #Conservation, Ecology, Wildlife Education #Animal and Plant Science Education #Species Distribution and Climate Change
paper · doi:10.1093/ornithapp/duag050
Abstract The Road to Recovery (R2R) is an independently funded initiative focused on the recovery of the most rapidly declining birds (Tipping Point Species) in the United States and Canada. R2R is committed to co-production among social and biological scientists, conservation practitioners, and impacted communities. By working together across disciplines to identify limiting factors, design strategies to address causes of decline, implement conservation actions to promote recovery, and monitor success, the R2R focus seeks to eliminate the research-to-implementation gap in bird conservation. An essential component of this effort is R2R’s Species Recovery Progress Wheel, a self-assessment tool designed to help Species Working Groups manage and incorporate often complex and disparate phases of conservation work, including not only biology but also human dimensions, inclusivity, and partnerships. The Wheel also provides a visually compelling graphical self-assessment of progress. As a case study, we describe the 90 progressive criteria included in the Recovery Progress Wheel and demonstrate its use in gaining perspective, setting goals, and critically assessing the recovery of Coccyzus americanus (Yellow-billed cuckoo). We demonstrate the value of the Wheel as a tool for species recovery efforts as well as coordination within bird conservation networks. The integration of the Recovery Progress Wheel into bird conservation planning highlights the need for social and biological co-production and more deliberate attention to issues of social justice and inclusivity in research and conservation action.