Mike Hoogveld
Co-founder nlmtd
Mike Hoogveld is a partner at nlmtd and an expert in future-proof organization. With over twenty years of experience as a manager and advisor across a wide range of organizations, both domestically and internationally, Mike also serves as a startup mentor. Additionally, he conducts scientific research at Nyenrode and teaches at various universities and business schools.
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In the first article of the series, “Accelerating Transitions,” Mike Hoogveld takes you into the world of systems thinking, collaboration, and leadership. Inspired by ecosystems and nature, he demonstrates how these principles can contribute to sustainable impact.
A Chain Reaction
Wolves had disappeared from Yellowstone by the early twentieth century due to intensive hunting and trapping. As a result, the elk population doubled, leading to overgrazing that destabilized the ecosystem. This was particularly evident along the banks of the Yellowstone River, where biodiversity rapidly declined.
In 1995, 41 wolves were reintroduced into the park, marking the beginning of what biologists refer to as a “trophic cascade”—a chain reaction within the ecosystem. The wolves significantly reduced the elk population, and the remaining carcasses attracted scavengers, including eagles, ravens, and coyotes. With fewer elk grazing, plants began to grow again, which resulted in an abundance of berries for grizzly bears, whose populations subsequently increased.
Additionally, the return of trees provided nesting sites for songbirds. The resurgence of flowers also led to an increase in the populations of bees and hummingbirds. Mice and rabbits found cover in the restored landscape, which helped protect them from predators.
The roots of the newly returned trees strengthened the riverbanks, which were less trampled by elk hooves. Consequently, erosion decreased, the water became clearer, and fish species returned to the area. Beavers also made a comeback, building dams that created habitats for reptiles, amphibians, otters, and fish. Remarkably, even the remaining elk proved to be stronger and healthier than before [1].
What can the Yellowstone story teach us about societal changes, like those in energy or food?
First, it is essential to recognize that everything is interconnected. An intervention in the right place, such as the reintroduction of wolves, can lead to unexpected chain reactions, where one change triggers many others.
The key is to identify where the system is most imbalanced and to intervene in those specific areas. It’s not effective to try to change everything at once; instead, focus on the components that have the greatest potential for impact. As demonstrated in Yellowstone, there can be no balance without wolves.
In our society, achieving change also requires patience and perseverance, as fundamental transformations take time. However, one well-considered step can set off an entire transition.
Equally important is collaboration. Without the involvement of residents, businesses, and policymakers, even the most well-planned initiatives are likely to fail. In Yellowstone, there were many critics of the wolf reintroduction. By actively communicating and being transparent about goals and results, supporters were gained.
The essence of a transition lies not just in dreaming big, but in acting wisely, purposefully, and collectively.
Want to learn more about successfully navigating transitions? Contact us.
[1] Source: The Wolves of Yellowstone, National Geographic
