Spatial optimization is a methodology used to maximize or minimize a
management objective, given the limited area, finite resources, and
spatial relationships in an ecosystem. Optimization approaches can be
used to evaluate a great variety of options and allow tradeoff analyses
that might be impossible with other methods.
This book presents ideas and methods for directly optimizing the spatial
layout of the landscape features in which an ecosystem functions. The
problems Hof and Bevers address are complex, and the book relies heavily
on mathematical presentations; the ideas are explained in a tutorial
fashion that allows readers to grasp the general principals even if they
skip the math. The first of four parts treats static spatial
relationships that reflect the importance of shape, size, and proximity
within an ecosystem. Part 2 considers spatial autocorrelation in a
chance-constrained modeling framework. Part 3 discusses dynamic spatial
changes within modeled ecosystems, and the final section focuses on
diversity and sustainability. Although most discussion concerns wildlife
habitat issues, the authors also include chapters on recreation, timber
management, water runoff, and pest management.