Assessment of Landscape Characterization and Classification Methods

Abstract

The absence of a hierarchical approach to classification that integrates landscape and riverine ecological theory hampers scientific and regulatory endeavors to define natural resource management strategies protective of watershed dynamics. This report will review existing aquatic and landscape classification methodologies and measures of ecosystem condition and to develop a synthesis paper that first describes the components and uses of existing methods, and that evaluates the strengths and weaknesses of existing approaches. Finally, a suggested template for "riverscape" classification based on the assessment of existing systems and a suggested case study applying the classification template will be presented. Additional basic research supporting hierarchical classification will be outlined.