Laura Thompson Erik A. Beever Augustin C. Engman Cat Hawkins Hoffman Stephen T. Jackson Trevor J. Krabbenhoft David J Lawrence Douglas Limpinsel Robert T. Magill Tracy Melvin John M. Morton Robert Newman Jay Peterson Mark T. Porath Frank J. Rahel Gregor Schuurman Suresh Sethi Jennifer L. Wilkening Abigail J. Lynch 2021 <div class="abstract-group"><div class="article-section__content en main"><p>Ecosystem transformation involves the emergence of persistent ecological or social–ecological systems that diverge, dramatically and irreversibly, from prior ecosystem structure and function. Such transformations are occurring at increasing rates across the planet in response to changes in climate, land use, and other factors. Consequently, a dynamic view of ecosystem processes that accommodates rapid, irreversible change will be critical for effectively conserving fish, wildlife, and other natural resources, and maintaining ecosystem services. However, managing ecosystems toward states with novel structure and function is an inherently unpredictable and difficult task. Managers navigating ecosystem transformation can benefit from considering broader objectives, beyond a traditional focus on<span>&nbsp;</span><i>resisting</i><span>&nbsp;</span>ecosystem change, by also considering whether<span>&nbsp;</span><i>accepting</i><span>&nbsp;</span>inevitable change or<span>&nbsp;</span><i>directing</i><span>&nbsp;</span>it along some desirable pathway is more feasible (that is, practical and appropriate) under some circumstances (the RAD framework). By explicitly acknowledging transformation and implementing an iterative RAD approach, natural resource managers can be deliberate and strategic in addressing profound ecosystem change.</p></div></div> application/pdf 10.1002/fee.2377 en Ecological Society of America Managing for RADical ecosystem change: Applying the Resist-Accept-Direct (RAD) framework article