Hydrological connectivity assessment of landscape ecological network to mitigate development impacts

We made a botanical survey of a seminatural meadow situated in the vicinity of Hajdúnánás-Tedej in Hungary, using traditional phytocenological methods. The habitat, based on its soil-, and botanical characteristics, can be classified into the category of saline meadows. One of the landscape ecological values of this area is its mosaic-like structure and, as a consequence, this habitat can be divided into six characteristic associations with blurry borderlines and characteristic overlaps. Because of its rare plant species and species richness this area can be considered to be a valuable „seed bank” and a „stepping stone” in the ecological network among the larger, intensively cultivated fields. The area can be evaluated as moderately recovered, the natural species are dominant, but there are few disturbance tolerant species. Except for the two saline associations, the high grass associations, which make up about two-thirds of the habitat, are cut once a year; therefore, the agricultural utilisation of the area and its prevention against weediness are being assured at the same time.

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Greenway planning: developing a landscape ecological network approach

Landscape and Urban Planning ◽

10.1016/0169-2046(94)02017-a ◽

1995 ◽

Vol 33 (1-3) ◽

pp. 179-193 ◽

Cited By ~ 80

Author(s):

John Linehan ◽

Meir Gross ◽

John Finn

Keyword(s):

Network Approach ◽

Ecological Network ◽

Landscape Ecological

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Functions of Windbreaks in the Landscape Ecological Network and Methods of Their Evaluation

Forests ◽

10.3390/f12010067 ◽

2021 ◽

Vol 12 (1) ◽

pp. 67

Author(s):

Jana Podhrázská ◽

Josef Kučera ◽

Daniel Doubrava ◽

Petr Doležal

Keyword(s):

Agricultural Production ◽

Agricultural Landscape ◽

Functional System ◽

The State ◽

Ecological Network ◽

Functional Organisation ◽

Linear Elements ◽

Method Of Evaluation ◽

Landscape Ecological ◽

South Moravia

Linear elements in the agricultural landscape, particularly windbreaks, reduce the wind speed and improve the microclimate in the protected zone. They offer many direct effects on agricultural production with maximum benefits of ecosystem biodiversity. Despite the indisputable advantages and favourable effects of permanent linear vegetation elements, their representation in the agricultural landscape is not as frequent as it used to be. Moreover, the formerly planted elements do not fulfil their original function due to the overgrowth and neglected maintenance. The optimum spatial and functional organisation of the newly proposed linear elements requires evaluation of the existing linear vegetation, its functional parameters and involvement in the landscape ecological network. Our report presents methods for the evaluation of the linear elements, both from the aspect of their internal structure and species composition (category A) and their involvement in the functional system (category B). The evaluation is based on seven established criteria and results in a point scoring system that reflects the characteristics of the reference criteria. In five selected localities, we tested the linear elements as individuals by the A method and their integrity by the B method of evaluation. In one locality only, the state of windbreaks was assessed as functional; at two localities, they were found as conditionally functional, and at two other localities, the state of the windbreaks was assessed as non-functional. An example of the evaluation of individual windbreaks (category A) is demonstrated in model localities in South Moravia, Czech Republic. The results of the evaluation of the model localities thus point out an unsatisfactory state of the linear elements in the region of South Moravia and the need to accord them increased care and to establish new plantations under professional supervision. Their building can be sped up by using the tools of land consolidation.

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Context-Based Spatial Decisions in Landscape-Ecological Planning

10.21203/rs.3.rs-167130/v1 ◽

2021 ◽

Author(s):

Alexander Khoroshev

Keyword(s):

Forest Cover ◽

Landscape Planning ◽

Landscape Patterns ◽

Buffer Strips ◽

Ecological Planning ◽

Ecological Network ◽

Dynamic Events ◽

Runoff Regulation ◽

Northern European Russia ◽

Landscape Ecological

Abstract ContextThe vital challenge for the context-based landscape planning is integrating assessments of for both intrinsic properties of a unit and its value in a broad spatial context.ObjectivesThe purpose is to develop the procedure which provides context-based criteria at relevant scales, considers matter flows and dynamic events.MethodsThe methodology involves identification of landscape patterns, revealing mechanisms of radial and lateral relationships, considering changes of landscape patterns, and revealing functioning mechanisms causing directed changes. The proposals proceed from multiplicity of patterns and integrate knowledge of processes in biophysical units, catenas, basins, and matrix elements. The plan was elaborated for the taiga landscape in northern European Russia.ResultsDevelopment of ecological network is aimed at increase of forest cover in basins up to 35% to enhance runoff regulation, prevent soil erosion, and stabilize the riparian biocorridor. The highest significance was assigned to the units that have intrinsic ecological values and contribute to lateral transportation of matter over vast areas. Width of buffer strips intercepting input of pollutants to rivers was adapted to proportions of elements and neighborhoods in catenas. Outside the ecological network, we identified priorities for the multifunctional use of units based on the assessment of drainage conditions, soil quality, and risk of erosion. ConclusionsThe procedure takes into consideration landscape hierarchy and multiplicity of spatial patterns. Integrating multiple models is in compliance with the systemic essence of a landscape ensuring understanding of geodiversity, lateral connections, and the emergent effects that ensure the landscape services for society.

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