Wildlife Monographs: gap analysis

This article involves gap analysis and the protection of biodiversity at state-wide, regional, national, and ultimately, international scales. Gap Analysis is a "coarse-filter" approach to conservation evaluation. Gap Analysis provides a quick overview of the distribution of several components of biodiversity. The methodology of gap analysis serves as a basis for monitoring and evaluating changes in biodiversity in fine and coarse scales. Layering of GIS mappings can identify spatial and temporal impacts, such as air pollution, on significant ecological habitats. Ecological maps and spatial data can be linked to create pictures of how ecosystems might preform under human-induced changes. As long as the limitations of the Gap Analysis process are realized, it provides a frame-work for land use planning that will allow for the prosperity of both the native species of the area and citizens of the same community.