Conservation Prioritization using Multi-criteria Decision Model: A Case Study in Part of Western Himalayan Ecoregion

Abstract

Vegetation and land use map was prepared using the satellite image of IRS-1D LISS III sensor. Four vegetation types were mapped, viz., temperate broadleaf forest, temperate conifer forest, pine forest and degraded forest. Different forest types were characterized for conservation prioritization based on parameters obtained through field sampling and landscape analysis. These parameters were (i) species diversity, (ii) mosaic diversity, (iii) total plant value, and (iv) contagion. The areas of low, medium and high priorities for conservation were mapped by integration of weighted input computed through analytic hierarchy process of these parameters. Present approach of area prioritization considered biodiversity as well as ecosystem attributes to provide better information to natural resource managers. 

Keywords: Area prioritization, conservation, contagion, western Himalaya