Ecography · 2009 · 85 citations · 9 references
Natural ResourcesBiodiversity ConservationEnvironmental ManagementConservation EcologyConservation PlanningEcological PlanningConservation Decision-makingConservation GeographyConservation Land-use PlanningConservation PrioritizationProtected Area DesignSpatial Conservation PlanningConservation Management PlanningConservation Network DesignInteractive AnalysisMulti-criteria Spatial Decision MakingOptimization Models For ConservationPlanning ExercisesSpatial Optimization ModelsTabu Search
ConsNet is a comprehensive software package for the design of conservation area networks (CANs). The software selects areas to be potentially placed under conservation management for the representation of biodiversity surrogates. Additionally, ConsNet optimizes spatial criteria including compactness, connectivity, replication, and alignment, as well as socio‐economic criteria as specified by users. ConsNet uses an advanced tabu search engine to identify efficient alternatives quickly, offering capabilities beyond existing planning software. The ability to perform ongoing interactive analysis with multi‐criteria objectives makes ConsNet an ideal decision support tool for large scale planning exercises.
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