The conservation priorities are referred to as landscape-based because they focus predominantly on the naturally occurring systems - i.e., topographic, vegetative, geologic, etc parameters - largely separate from the human imposed land ownership pattern.
Resource value and development potential are combined to form the landscape-based conservation priorities. These are areas of the landscape with high conservation value that are likely to be developed without violating building constraints and local government regulations. Note that at this point, development potential has not been restricted to private parcels.
The results of the landscape-based analysis are then combined with the land ownership pattern to define the overall conservation priorities.
The Alpine Loop Spatial Analysis and Mapping Project analyzed the Alpine Loop landscape, considering important natural and cultural resources along with the likelihood of development based upon building constraints. The Project aims to provide a planning tool for area stakeholders as they consider the variety of land management options and the future of this magnificent region. The next logical step will be to craft solutions that work within the framework of landowner desires, local and federal government land management goals, and available financial and technical resources to manage the area in a way that preserves the Alpine Loop experience for future generations.
While the Alpine Loop lies within three counties - San Juan, Hinsdale and Ouray - the analytical work extended into a portion of San Miguel County. The resulting mapping and analyses will:
1. Create a spatial foundation to aid future projects in the Alpine Loop corridor;
2. Serve as a prioritization tool for evaluating the conservation potential of individual private parcels;
3. Provide the necessary framework for pursuing future funding opportunities.