Connecting southern Californians with nature
Ecosystem services is a term used to describe the benefits to people fiom natural areas (Millennium Ecosystem Assessment, 2005). Services to humans can range from food production to water purification to aesthetics. The Millennium Ecosystem Assessment (MEA) was initiated in 2001 to assess the consequences of ecosystem change for human well-being and the scientific basis for actions needed to enhance the conservation and sustainable use of those systems. The assessment involved more than 1,300 experts worldwide.