Slide 25 of 25
Notes:
I’ll end by suggesting how this model can be applied to conservation. We envision a hierarchical approach. First, at the landscape scale, the kernel pools model is used to identify “hot” clusters of highly connected pools. Second, upland habitat around this subset of pools can be evaluated from aerial photography and perhaps field work. Finally, a priority subset of potential vernal pools that are known to be highly connected across the landscape and to have adequate upland habitat can be visited in the field to assess their habitat and populations of vernal pool amphibians.
I thank MassGIS and Massachusetts Fish and Game’s Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program for GIS data, and Lloyd Gamble for marbled salamander data and his considerable insights.
