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area to be protected, but 'the larger the better' is the usual 

 rule as long as the natural area contains ecologically important 

 and significant biota and functions. 



Some natural areas may require a buffer area to prevent 

 contamination, silting, or protection from other human inter- 

 ferences. Buffer zones may themselves be true natural areas or 

 areas with conservation easements to prevent destruction or 

 exploitation, hunting and/or fishing, or otherwise to assure 

 the protected area's viability. 



