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Development of a landscape rehabilitation management model using a case study approach

University of British Columbia

Landscape rehabilitation has evolved relatively recently in response to environmental concerns arising from surface mining, construction of linear corridors such as highways and transmission lines, and other large scale engineering projects such as dams, ski developments, or resource exploration. Landscape degradation in heavily used park and recreation sites, and rehabilitation of derelict urban open space also constitute an important aspect of study. Research efforts have been directed largely toward technical solutions of specific site problems, while comparatively little work has approached the larger question of rehabilitation within the context of managing landscape resources. The thesis postulates that a management model including a broad range of variables will result in an improved rehabilitation process and a more rational treatment of disturbed land. The method of investigation includes three component parts; a literature review, case studies, and the development of a rehabilitation management model. Three major case study sites in distinct biogeoclimatic zones within Canada's National Parks were examined to illustrate the methods employed in different rehabilitation projects; the scope of project, site characteristics and rehabilitation methods are described and assessed. Monitoring plots were established to facilitate observation of plant material success and post-rehabilitation recreational or other impacts. Observations over two growing seasons showed moderate but inconsistent plant material survival rates. The rehabilitation techniques in each of the study areas were found to be effective, while deficiencies in management, maintenance and monitoring practices were the primary causes of failure. The planning, design, and implementation processes were important contributing factors. An analysis of the case studies is combined with the established information presented in the literature review to evolve a landscape rehabilitation management model. The model proposes an organized system of variables to consider during the rehabilitation process from land management objectives through site investigation and design, to implementation. The critical phases of maintenance, monitoring and review are stressed, while the model structure emphasizes the interrelationships within the process. Landscape rehabilitation planning must encompass a full range of technical components yet function within a given administrative and management framework.

Text

2010-03-26

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http://hdl.handle.net/2429/22647

Plant Science

University of British Columbia

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