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Land Analysis Entering the data and analysis of the survey teams into our Geographic Information System enabled us to develop a mapping process that revealed areas most suited for conservation, and those appropriate for settlement. Among landscapes selected for conservation were those determined to be less accessible from existing roads, dominated by characteristics of riparian corridors, wetlands, sensitive species habitats, grades in excess of 30 percent, or possessing unique or extraordinary beauty. Using exhaustive environmental studies 0ur analyses, through a process of elimination, revealed the 2,000 acres where human settlement would not materially alter The Preserve's natural resources. Most areas that squared with these resource-based criteria for settlement had a history of homesteading and ranch-related uses, often farming or cattle grazing. They were also already served by an existing network of ranch roads. The remaining 18,000 acres, which were resource rich, were set aside for permanent conservation. |
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