An Assessment of Land Conservation Patterns in Maine Based on Spatial Analysis of Ecological and Socioeconomic Indicators

摘要: Given the nature of modern conservation acquisitions, which often result from gifts and opportunistic purchases full or partial property rights, there is a risk that resulting mosaic conserved resources may not represent coherent set public values benefits. With different private entities engaged in land conservation, one would further expect each organization apply separate goals criteria to selection acquisition its portfolio. This circumstances raises an important question: what aggregate outcome this process? Retrospective assessments provide means reviewing cumulative historical decisions elucidating lessons for improving future strategies. study used GIS-based spatial analysis examine relationships lands Maine variety landscape metrics order determine degree these core ecological socioeconomic are meaningful wide cross-section citizens. Results revealed gains past efforts counter-balanced some extent by apparent gaps existing fabric holdings. Conservation capture representative sample diverse habitat, large measure protection multiple indicators, offer unusual mix outdoor recreational opportunities residents visitors alike. Yet, majority parcels relatively small isolated, thus do contiguous habitat blocks offset ongoing processes fragmentation. Furthermore, area associated with many examined report located outside boundaries current The under-represented identified investigation can be viewed as potential targets new strategic initiatives.