A cellular automata model of land cover change to integrate urban growth with open space conservation

摘要: Abstract The preservation of riparian zones and other environmentally sensitive areas has long been recognized as one the most cost-effective methods managing stormwater providing a broad range ecosystem services. In this research, cellular automata (CA)—Markov chain model land cover change was developed to integrate protection into urban growth projections at regional scale. baseline scenario is continuation current trends involves only limited constraints on development. green infrastructure (GI) conservation incorporates an open space network based functional boundaries areas. It includes variable buffer widths for impaired streams (as identified USEPA 303d list stream impairment), 100-year floodplain, wetlands, steep slopes. Comparative analysis each with landscape metrics indicated that under GI scenario, number patches decreased while extent interspersion increased leading improved connectivity among features. provides quantitative illustration how our process contributes towards achieving planning objectives incorporating infrastructure.