Stevens, Saundi. 2002. Landsat TM-based Greenness as a Surrogate for
Grizzly Bear Habitat Quality in the Central Rockies Ecosystem. Canada. Master’s Degree Project, Resources and the
Environment Program, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta.
Note: The abstract for this Master’s Degree Project
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Landsat TM-based Greenness as a
Surrogate for Grizzly Bear Habitat Quality in the Central Rockies Ecosystem.
By Saundi Stevens
(a thesis submitted to the Faculty of
Graduate Studies in partial fulfillment of the reqirements for the degree
of
Master of Science, Resources and the Environment Program, University of
Calgary)
ABSTRACT
I analyzed seasonal grizzly bear relocation data from two
study areas within the Central Canadian Rocky Mountain Ecosystem (CRE) to
determine if grizzly bear (Ursus arctos) habitat use can be predicted
using a Landsat TM-based greenness (pseudo-habitat) map. I used a
selection of random points to define availability of habitat across the
landscape and analyzed the differences in distribution of habitat between
the two study regions. I conducted analysis of univariate relationships
between predictor variables and occurrence data. I generated a set of
candidate models and used multiple logistic regressions to compare habitat
variables at telemetry locations with those at random point locations.
Candidate models were evaluated with Akaike Information Criteria (AIC) to
select the best model for predicting probability of female grizzly bear
occurrence. Using regression coefficients from the selected models I
developed a validated grizzly bear probability of occurrence model, then
categorized probabilities to generate a habitat quality map for the CRE. I
overlaid an updated model of adult female grizzly bear security areas with
the habitat quality map. I discussed the application of a habitat quality
map in security area analysis, and identified the percent of available
land base that is secure high habitat quality across 4 major management
jurisdictions within the CRE, across individual bear management units (BMU)
within National Parks and Kananaskis Country, Alberta and within
individual female grizzly bear home ranges. The percentage of land base in
secure high quality habitat is small across the CRE; currently no
jurisdiction, BMU or female grizzly bear home range meets USDA Forest
Service targets for providing habitat security for long term grizzly bear
conservation. I identified specific applications of the secure habitat
quality model in grizzly bear conservation and management strategies. I
also highlighted some limitations to using a pseudo-habitat model based on
greenness. The predictive models of habitat quality and security areas in
the CRE are necessary tools to assist managers in cross-jurisdictional
planning and demarcation of important sites for grizzly bears.
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