Okanagan-Similkameen Region Biodiversity Conservation Analysis Habitat Connectivity Rankings
Dates
Start Date
1994
End Date
2011
Summary
A GIS-based analysis was used to model habitat connectivity in the three Okanagan Regional Districts in British Columbia: the North Okanagan Regional District, the Central Okanagan Regional District and the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen. This model integrated a series of parameters to identify connected and potentially fragmented habitats. The model was not specific to a particular species. The goal was to identify portions of the landscape offering a higher opportunity for wildlife movement at a regional scale. The following parameters were used to model connectivity corridors: Elevation – Lower elevations (i.e., the valley) receive higher scores; Slope – Steep slopes receive lower scores; Terrain Ruggedness – Terrain [...]
Summary
A GIS-based analysis was used to model habitat connectivity in the three Okanagan Regional Districts in British Columbia: the North Okanagan Regional District, the Central Okanagan Regional District and the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen. This model integrated a series of parameters to identify connected and potentially fragmented habitats. The model was not specific to a particular species. The goal was to identify portions of the landscape offering a higher opportunity for wildlife movement at a regional scale. The following parameters were used to model connectivity corridors: Elevation – Lower elevations (i.e., the valley) receive higher scores; Slope – Steep slopes receive lower scores; Terrain Ruggedness – Terrain with less variability receive higher scores; Accessibility to water – Areas that are more readily accessible to water receive higher scores; and Urban areas – Urban areas and roads were not considered to provide connectivity. Agricultural areas have been included but receive lower scores. Based on the scores generated by the model, habitat connectivity was ranked as either low, moderate, high or as a connectivity barrier. This connectivity map is part of a larger analysis that was conducted to develop "A Biodiversity Conservation Strategy for the Okanagan Region" (including parts of the Shuwswap, North/Central/South Okanagan, and Similkameen Valleys). The other maps in the series include: a conservation ranking map that shows the relative importance and sensitivity of various ecosystems; a relative biodiversity map that provides a comprehensive look at the relative areas of greatest ecological and biodiversity significance; and a land management class map that examines the level of protection and/or management of the land. The intention is that together, all 4 maps in the series will allow individuals and organizations to make more informed decisions on conservation and land use planning at a region-wide scale.
The objectives of this analysis are: To quantify and map biodiversity and wildlife habitat connectivity in the region toward the goal of identifying areas of significant biodiversity. To quantify the current degree of protection of lands within the region and identify unprotected areas of significant biodiversity. To lead the development of decision support tools to assist local governments and agencies in setting priorities for identifying, preserving and restoring important natural areas in the South Okanagan-Similkameen. To identify nationally and regionally significant natural areas within the South Okanagan-Similkameen, and to establish a process for decision-makers to work together to enhance and preserve the natural legacy of this region. To maintain and improve ecosystem health and resiliency throughout the South Okanagan-Similkameen valleys through the establishment of a network of protected and managed natural habitat areas across all land tenures. To conserve and enhance sensitive ecosystems, habitat reserves and corridors so that the widest range of plant and animal species are protected. To ensure that all decision-makers and citizens have the maps, information and tools they need to protect these habitats and species. To make recommendations and provide decision-support tools to local, senior and First Nations governments and agencies on conservation priorities and opportunities. To secure opportunities for residents and visitors to access, appreciate and enjoy natural areas and special places.These results will be used to facilitate the development of the region’s Biodiversity Conservation Strategy by providing quantitative data to guide decision-making.
Rights
None. Users are advised to read the data set's metadata thoroughly to understand appropriate use and data limitations.