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Gap Analysis is a broad-scale conservation evaluation method that uses GIS
technology to assess the status of biodiversity. Three primary data layers
are combined in an overlay analysis to identify "gaps" in biodiversity
protection.
A data layer of vertebrate distributions is refined into detailed
maps of predicted species occurrence by using habitat models to extract areas
of suitable habitat from a land cover map. This land cover map constitutes
the second data layer, and generally consists of vegetation types and
other cover types delineated from Thematic Mapper
satellite imagery. Predicted species occurrences can be combined to create
maps of species richness for all species, for specific taxa, or for groups
of special concern (e.g., endangered species). These predictions of
species richness can then be compared to the third primary data layer: a
map of conservation lands. Biodiversity hot-spots that are not currently
protected within the network of conservation lands would be high-priority
areas for establishment of preserves or changes in land management pratices.
Gap Analysis at the UVM Spatial Analysis Laboratory
The nation-wide Gap Analysis effort is being conducted on a state or regional
basis. The Vermont Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit is one of
several cooperators in New England GAP. The regional GAP effort in New
England has recently been broken up into smaller regions, although cooperation
between the New England regions and neighboring states continues.
Our primary responsibility here at the University of Vermont had been
development of species range maps and species-habitat models. More recently,
our involvement in Gap Analysis has shifted to focus on production of a
land cover map for Vermont and New Hampshire, and development of a
conservation lands database for Vermont.
More detailed information about Gap Analysis at the Spatial Analysis Lab is
available on our "Currents Projects" page.
See the Gap Analysis homepage
to find out more about the National effort.
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