Assessment of an Ecological Network at Local Scale in the Context of Landscape Changes: A Case Study from NE Poland

Abstract

The main aim of the study is to assess the functioning of an ecological corridor in the context of landscape changes, especially planned land use at local scale. The analysis was conducted within the Northern Ecological Corridor in Poland, which was first determined at national scale, and then specified at local scale. 29 municipalities in NE Poland were selected for detailed analysis. These municipalities are situated within the Northern Ecological Corridor in Poland, which connects the Knyszyn Forest, through the Biebrza Marshes, with the Pisz Forest. Spatial planning documents developed at local scale were analysed. The research allows the identification of areas where conflicts between land use and landscape connectivity occur. These conflicts are mainly connected with housing development and tourism infrastructure. This study shows that in Poland, where no legal instruments to protect ecological networks exist, the development of ecological corridors at local scale requires not only conducting an analysis of the present land use and landscape permeability, but also a detailed analysis of spatial planning documents. Only a coherent ecological network with a perspective for the future will ensure effective protection of an ecological network and, thus, biodiversity.