Landscape continuity analysis: A new approach to conservation planning in Israel

摘要: Landscape continuity is an important factor to consider while conducting evaluation of nature and landscape sensitivity. The new method presented here for analysis offers a quantitative tool compare alternative land use plans in order maintain maximum open areas. approach can be applied at multiple spatial scales adds layer conservation planning. In contrast with the methodology ecological networks this does not assume any natural core Rather, it assigns value grid cells based on their distance from different types built areas that are weighted according estimated impact. Two case studies Israel presented: (1) whole country scale, demonstrating how regions within differ continuity, as well examining these results influenced by weights assigned built-up areas; (2) Ramot Menashe area. Here shown incorporated planning (a) acknowledge importance spaces matrix agricultural, forested (b) quantitatively estimate impact planned Cross-Israel Highway No. 6