Spatial Analysis Used in Baseline Study for the Preparation of Management Plan of Kazbegi Protected Areas

Abstract

Collected data were separated in three generalized subsystem: environment (its main elements: air, land and water) as an Abiotic subsystems; flora and fauna, as the elements of a Biotic subsystem and Cultural environment, as a third subsystem, with its historical-cultural heritage and existing infrastructure. Interpretation and evaluation of the data were made for each component (Abiotic, Biotic and Cultural) through the use of criteria of significance and description of constraints (limiting factors) which were elaborated under the project SPPA/CS/2015-5/RE1. In parallel with the studies, the structure of GIS geodatabase for the protected area was created, which consists of both base map features – GIS layers, and thematic part. The base map scale is 1:25k, the scale of thematic maps is 1:50k. Based on the study results, the recommendations were developed: on the issues of the protected area category relevance, internal zoning, use of natural resources, biodiversity protection and monitoring. These recommendations will assist in the management plan preparation process, in order to accurately define the objectives of protected area and to properly design the work of the management and staff of the protected area.