ABR provides a wide array of services in the field of ecological land classification and mapping. An Ecological Land Classification involves an initial ecological land survey (ELS) to inventory, classify, and map basic components of the landscape (terrain, surface-forms, vegetation, and hydrology) followed by the classification and organization of land characteristics at various scales, ranging from ecotypes to ecosystems. The ELC is essential to managing land resources because it integrates many features of a landscape and allows it to be viewed as an association of functional units. ELCs are used in ecological risk assessments, fire management, planning for military training exercises, analysis and mapping of wildlife habitats, terrain sensitivity, wetland distribution, and identification of rare habitats and species. ABR scientists have developed ELCs for military lands and National Parks in Alaska, as well as for various oil developments on the Arctic Coastal Plain.
Our specific services in this area include the following:
Ecological Land Surveys (integrated geomorphology, soil, hydrology, and vegetation)
Soils Mapping and Analyses
Ecosystem Classification at Regional, Landscape, and Local Scales
Identification of Sensitive Terrains or Ecosystems
Delineations of Disturbed Habitats
Satellite and Photographic Image Interpretation and Analyses
