Colorado Plateau Information

"A Bioregion can be described as an area without hard boundaries but which can be distinguished by its may natural features including the flora, fauna, soil, climate, geology, and drainage area. A critical component of a bioregion is the human culture which has developed within and is integral to that area. This essential human element is what distinguishes the concept of bioregion from similar ecological entities which traditionally treat humans and their cultures as interlopers rather than as integral components of a natural community. All together, these bioregions form a vast patchwork extending over the planet. Political boundaries have little meaning from either a bioregional perspective or in classical ecological thinking. In short, bioregionalism is having, or developing, 'a sense of place'."

Bioregion Principles

From the definition of a bioregion, we have developed a summary of the Bioregional Principles that were developed by the First and Second North American Bioregional Congresses held in 1984 and 1988 and reaffirmed in 1990, 1992, and 1994. These are:

• Interdependence of all living things worldwide.
• Respecting yourself and each other.
• Sharing within the human community and natural environment.
• Honoring intellect while promoting a joyful awareness of spirit.
• Using tradition as an important learning tool.
• Expansion from human values to include more Earth and nature centered values.
• Our actions affect the entire Earth.
• Integrate social and ecological justice issues.
• A sustainable economy and society.

These principles are integrated throughout the program.