Conservation Planning at Multiple Scales in the Maine Landscape: Modeling the Impacts of Ecological, Economic, Social, and Political Factors on Alternative Open Space Futures

Abstract l Updates & Additional Materials

Co-Principal Investigators

• Christopher Cronan, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Maine
• Tim Glidden, Land for Maine’s Future Program, Maine State Planning Office
• Robert Lilieholm, School of Forest Policy, University of Maine

Stakeholders:

• Lower Penobscot Watershed Coalition
• Maine State Planning Office
• Land for Maine’s Future program
• Maine Inland Fisheries and Wildlife
• Maine Department of Conservation
• Maine Department of Marine Resources
• Municipal Planning Boards in the Lower Penobscot Valley
• Maine Audubon
• National, Statewide, Regional, and Local Land Trusts
• Forest Society of Maine
• Small Woodlot Owners Association of Maine
• Maine Realtors Association
• Chamber of Commerce
• Eastern Maine Development Corporation

Abstract

The intent of this investigation is two-fold: (a) assess the approaches and achievements of previous land conservation efforts in Maine at local to regional scales, with particular emphasis on measuring ecological, social, and economic indicators of success, and (b) identify new integrative tools and models that will permit knowledge-based decision- making in setting future priorities for land conservation at various scales in the landscape. This cooperative study will be organized by representatives from the University of Maine and the Maine State Planning Office, and will engage students, faculty, and stakeholders in an iterative assessment and modeling process aimed at addressing the project goals. A GIS-based modeling approach will be used to integrate ecological, economic, social, and political perspectives in this conservation planning effort. One of the major outcomes of this research effort will be a preliminary master plan for open space conservation in the Lower Penobscot River Valley and a planning paradigm applicable to Maine and beyond.

Updates & Additional Materials

12/14/07 Workshop:
Cronan Power Point Presentation (pdf document)
Lilieholm Power Point Presentation (pdf document)