We are dedicated to community participation in urban ecosystem management. Local residents, whose daily actions influence the health and quality of urban ecosystems, must play a central role in policy design and management for these ecosystems. Conservation efforts, especially in urban areas where people represent a significant element of the ecosystem, must emphasize social revitalization alongside environmental restoration. Our approach therefore stresses the integration of the biophysical and social sciences. URI works with local New Haven community groups and residents to replant, restore, and reclaim the urban environment. We seek out environmental problems and turn their rehabilitation into opportunities for the social and physical renewal of our community and environment.