* Kareiva and Marvier emphasize conservation practices within workingA or human-altered landscapes-see chapters on forests, agriculture, and marine fisheries. * They relate-with first-hand experience-the innovative approaches to conservation being practiced around the world today-from advances in fundamental research through to their application in some of conservation's most difficult practical and ethical situations. * Kareiva and Marvier recognize that even among those committed to conservation there are divisions and debates. They don't shy away from these different points of view, and they even try to provoke open discussion-see the Consider ThisA essays following each chapter. * They engage the reader through Discussion Questions, as well as Group Projects that utilize global conservation data available through highlighted websites-see the close of each chapter. Conservation Science was primarily written for undergraduates and beginning graduate students who are interested either in academic careers or in doing science-based conservation at government agencies, non-governmental organizations, or international institutions. It will also be of interest to those already involved in conservation who want to bolster their understanding of the field. It is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the science that drives conservation policy and action.