DOI
https://doi.org/10.25772/ATVN-V780
Defense Date
2006
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science
Department
Environmental Sciences
First Advisor
Dr. Gregory C. Garman
Abstract
GIS (Geographic Information Systems) and remote sensing techniques were used to predict relationships between bald eagle nest presences and land type, distance to land type and impervious surface cover area. Data plots revealed bald eagle nest presence decreases in response to an increase in area of bareland; increases with an increase in area of forested land; decreases with an increase in distance (m) to shoreline, and decreases in response to an increase in area of impervious surfaces. Logistic regression models identified impervious surfaces as an indicator for bald eagle nest presence (P 24% as unsuitable. Unsuitable area covered 17.82% of the total study area, impacted area covered 13.40%, and, sensitive area covered 68.77%. The projected increase in population in the state of Virginia and subsequent increase in impervious surfaces presents a challenge to the future viability of the Virginia Chesapeake Bay bald eagle population. The threshold analysis identified areas of prime conservation concern for bald eagle nest presence within the defined study area. These areas provide the basis for a conservation management plan and for further scientific study.
Rights
© The Author
Is Part Of
VCU University Archives
Is Part Of
VCU Theses and Dissertations
Date of Submission
June 2008