Summary The Nature Characterization Map of Flanders is a collection of all available geographic information at the regional level that is considered relevant for nature conservation. The purpose of the map was to compile a database, making it possible to objectively grade the ecological value of a specific location. This grading system is based on three modules?the actual ... natural value, the abiotic system features, and the legal framework.
The actual natural value is primarily derived from the Biological Valuation map, a vegetation and land use map covering the entire Flemish region. Additional information comes from maps of (international) important wildlife areas, biotope rareness, level of habitat fragmentation, and the location of valuable rivers and streams.
The abiotic system features are used as a tool to integrate larger areas and to locate potentially valuable systems. The main information source is the soil map, from which several other features are derived.
The third module, the legal and policy framework, is important for establishing the feasibility of any proposed conservation projects. It includes information on the legal designation of land use and national and international protection status.
In the long term, the aim is to compile the information from the three modules into a single score, based on multicriteria analysis. The system should also allow for expansion and updating when new information becomes available. The map's primary use is to supply policy makers, planners, and nature conservation organizations at the regional and local levels with extensive and objective information. Geographic Coverage
Spatial coordinates
N: 51.82
S: 40.65
E: 10.4
W: -5.29
Data Set Citation
Dataset Creator:
Institute of Nature Conservation
Dataset Title:
A Nature Characterization Map of Flanders
Dataset Publisher:
Institute of Nature Conservation
Data Presentation Form:
map
Name:
HENRYK
OKARMA Phone:
+48 12 6322221
Fax:
+48 12 6322432
Contact Address:
Institute of Nature Conservation
Polish Academy of Sciences
Mickiewicza 33 Country:
POLAND
Personnel
TYLER
B.
STEVENS Role:
DIF AUTHOR
Phone:
(301) 614-6898
Fax:
301-614-5268
Email:
Tyler.B.Stevens at nasa.gov
Contact Address:
NASA Goddard Space Flight Center
Global Change Master Directory City:
Greenbelt
Province or State:
MD
Postal Code:
20771
Country:
USA
CARINE
WILS Role:
TECHNICAL CONTACT
Email:
carine.wils at instnat.be
Links
