Expert-based method for the evaluation of visual absorption capacity of the landscape

Abstract

This paper describes a method for the evaluation of visual absorption capacity of open spaces rich in natural and visual landscape resources. “Visual absorption capacity” is defined as the landscape's ability to absorb physical changes without transformation in its visual character and quality. The method utilised evaluates the visual absorption capacity on the basis of two groups of factors: the first includes physical changes that are caused by development features such as earthworks, buildings and structures, linear development (pipelines, etc.), outdoor recreation facilities and forest plantations. The second is concerned with biophysical characteristics of the area, renewal potential of vegetation and the visual exposure of the area to observers. The method used is based on data processed from existing surveys and on intensive use of experts in the field to quantify, classify and evaluate the area's characteristics and of potential changes as a result of development of various land uses. Experts were used where there was a lack of documented information on the area; of knowledge on potential impacts and in cases where there was disagreement on the visual value of natural resources. The immediate outputs of the method were computer-printed maps displaying six levels—from low capacity areas, in which the location of an activity is likely to cause visual change in the character of the area, to high capacity areas, in which the visual impact of development will be minimal. The method has been used so far in several regions with various geographical characteristics and was found to be effective and easy to apply.