Habitat Networks, The Netherlands
Sub-regional scale ecologically functional green infrastructure
The Netherlands has pioneered the planning of habitat networks and this work suggests that there are four key steps:
- Determine priorities – what are the priority habitats and species?
- Determine acceptable risk – what are the risks from weaknesses in the network?
- Determine habitat networks – what are the dispersal ranges for priority species?
- Determine conservation potential – what is the functional potential of the network?
Dutch networks define corridors for species migration, and buffer areas to protect habitats from disturbance. This work is supported by the use of new GIS models such as LARCH.
Sources:
1. Opdam, P Assessing the conservation potential of habitat networks, p.381 in Gutzwiller,K.J. (ed) (2002) Applying landscape ecology in biological conservation, Springer
2. Foppen, R.P.B. and J.P. Chardon (1998) LARCH-EUROPE a model to assess the biodiversity potential in fragmented European ecosystems, IBN No. 98/4, Wageningen University
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