Application of the theory of island biogeography in the design of a structural concept of nature and landscape conservation

Abstract

For a long term strategy on nature and landscape conservation in behalf of a revision of the regional plan for Twente, a structural concept together with a map has been composed. The theory of island biogeography has been used for the design of the nature part of the concept. The most important factor in the landscape part is the spatial structure of hedgerows, copses, clumps of trees, etc. Thoughts about improving this structure, emphasizing the contrast between hill-side open field and lowland enclosure and emphasizing landforms have been worked out for Twente. The article catches on the conception of vulnerability as a central element in the structural concept. The realization of the map of the structural concept including the mapping units is described. A major application of the map is the creation of zones within the rural area for the regional plan. Some conclusions are: - Segregation of nature and agriculture is proposed in areas with large extended nature areas; - Concentration areas are most important for nature conservation; it is desired to concentrate attention and application of means on these areas; - In case of protection conservation of characteristic ecotopes has to be pointed out; - The importance of a structural concept is the creation of an instrument that can be used to carry out a consistent policy on nature and landscape with an eye on the future; - Application of ideas described here seems to be possible in other landscape types; - Regular evaluation and, if necessary, adjustment of the structural concept is proposed, running parallel with the design of a regional plan.