Okanagan-Similkameen Region Biodiversity Conservation Analysis Habitat Connectivity Rankings

A GIS-based analysis was used to model habitat connectivity in the three Okanagan Regional Districts in British Columbia: the North Okanagan Regional District, the Central Okanagan Regional District and the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen. This model integrated a series of parameters to identify connected and potentially fragmented habitats. The model was not specific to a particular species. The goal was to identify portions of the landscape offering a higher opportunity for wildlife movement at a regional scale. The following parameters were used to model connectivity corridors: Elevation – Lower elevations (i.e., the valley) receive higher scores; Slope – Steep slopes receive lower scores; Terrain Ruggedness – Terrain with less variability receive higher scores; Accessibility to water – Areas that are more readily accessible to water receive higher scores; and Urban areas – Urban areas and roads were not considered to provide connectivity. Agricultural areas have been included but receive lower scores. Based on the scores generated by the model, habitat connectivity was ranked as either low, moderate, high or as a connectivity barrier. This connectivity map is part of a larger analysis that was conducted to develop "A Biodiversity Conservation Strategy for the Okanagan Region" (including parts of the Shuwswap, North/Central/South Okanagan, and Similkameen Valleys). The other maps in the series include: a conservation ranking map that shows the relative importance and sensitivity of various ecosystems; a relative biodiversity map that provides a comprehensive look at the relative areas of greatest ecological and biodiversity significance; and a land management class map that examines the level of protection and/or management of the land. The intention is that together, all 4 maps in the series will allow individuals and organizations to make more informed decisions on conservation and land use planning at a region-wide scale.