The Zonation Framework and Software for Conservation Prioritization

Abstract Zonation is a recently developed approach and software for spatial conservation prioritization (Moilanen et al. 2005; Moilanen and Kujala 2006, 2008; Moilanen 2007). Zonation effectively addresses a maximum utility type of problem (Chapter 3), taking into account distributions of features, connectivity responses, priorities for features, and variable emphasis placed on highest local quality (Sections 15.4–15.7). One main output of Zonation is a hierarchic ranking of conservation priority for all cells through the landscape, which can be visualized as a zoned map (Section 15.3). Zonation can, for example, inform the user of where to place or expand conservation (or restoration) areas, but it can also be used for the evaluation of existing or proposed conservation areas (Sections 15.8 and 15.9). Zonation is characterized by the ability to function on relatively large raster grid maps, facilitating a direct link from remote-sensing data and statistical distribution modelling. Using terminology of Chapter 1, Zonation primarily supports priority ranking and optimal plan generation, but it can also be used for scenario evaluation via load of solutions developed elsewhere.