Date of Graduation

2004

Document Type

Dissertation/Thesis

Abstract

The management of natural resources is a complex undertaking involving many issues, data, people and processes. Rarely is just one tool or model effective in management work. Integrated approaches provide more flexibility to address problems. This dissertation focused on the integration of geographic or locational information, spatial and statistical analysis techniques, and decision making tools to aid in resource management. Three papers are presented that address problems related to watershed and stream management at a statewide level, analysis of preferences for conserving lands for preservation, and implementation of conservation priorities to the parcel level. The first paper focuses on the development of spatial and hydrological tools for watershed characterization, development of a stream flow estimation model, and a ranking model to support decision making related to water quality problems at the watershed level. The second paper statistically tests for different preferences of conservation objectives among different groups of stakeholders and the effects of these differences spatially on conservation priorities. Finally, the last paper builds upon the results from the second by analyzing and offering some management and policy considerations for land preservation implementation at the parcel level. The methods demonstrated in this work were found to greatly contribute decision making support and aid in natural resource management. The different applications share a common theme of spatially based decision support systems, and each provides examples of flexibility, insight, and utility that is gained from this integrated process. The methods involve the use of technology for spatial data and analysis as well as decision support tools to enable managers or decision makers in their day to day work in ways not previously available.

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