Identifying a Linked Reserve System Using a Regional Landscape Approach: the Florida Ecological Network

Abstract

We completed an analysis of potential ecological connectivity to identify areas with priority conservation significance and landscape linkages as part of a state of Florida program called Greenways. This is the latest step in the state's design and protection of a reserve system based on an aggressive land acquisition program. We used geographic information systems software (Arc‐Info) to develop a decision support model that uses land‐use data and information on significant ecological areas—including important habitats for target species, priority ecological communities, wetlands, roadless areas, floodplains, and important aquatic systems—to identify larger areas of ecological priority and potential ecological linkages. The result of this process, the Florida Ecological Network, includes approximately half the state's area, with over half of this network already in conservation lands or public‐domain water. This network could provide a linked statewide reserve system containing most of each major ecological community and most known occurrences of rare species. Although the ecological network represents significant progress toward a more integrated approach to biodiversity conservation in Florida, further analysis is needed to (1) ensure that the needs of wide‐ranging species, such as the Florida panther ( Puma concolor coryi) and Florida black bear ( Ursus americanus floridanus), are addressed; (2) identify other biodiversity elements not well represented; and (3) designate a system of cores and buffers that will address management issues. Reserve design is an iterative process, and future plans need to address new information, including the results of the Florida GAP analysis project and ongoing habitat loss.

Characterization of Regionally Associated Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) in Bobcats (Lynx rufus)

“…These changes may consequently increase disease transmission within and between species (Harris and Atkins, 1991;Hoctor et al, 2000;Franklin et al, 2007). Habitat modification is a leading determinant of crossspecies transmission of pathogens (Deem et al, 2001;Patz et al, 2004;Aguirre and Tabor, 2008).…”

Of cats and Haruspices*: genetic intervention in the Florida panther. Response to Pimm et al. (2006)

“…Comiskey et al, 2002), engenders a perception among popular and regulation-enforcement onlookers that the need for private land conservation and management is somehow mitigated (Maehr, Larkin & Cox, 2004). Even worse, it flies in the face of programming to increase incentives for habitat and panther conservation on private lands, which, ultimately, are the only hope for longer term panther conservation in Florida (Maehr, 1990;Hoctor, Carr & Zwick, 2000;. A diminution of conservation efforts on private land could threaten the existence and functionality of key habitats and dispersal corridors that occur nowhere else (Maehr, 1990).…”

Prioritising wetlands subject to secondary salinisation for ongoing management using aquatic invertebrate assemblages: a case study from the Wheatbelt Region of Western Australia

“…The identification of priority areas of ecological significance has been used worldwide to assist management goals and reduce costs (i.e., Hoctor et al 2000). Although a number of methodologies have been developed for terrestrial and marine ecosystems, few are specific to inland waters.…”