Author Institution: Ohio Biological SurveyA general but comprehensive environmental analysis of the environmental resources of a large region may be conducted utilizing an analysis/index matrix and maps of the analyzed resources. This methodology, previously applied to the 10,976 square mile Central Ohio Water Development Region, incorporates ecologically sound data in a format intelligible to decision makers. Resource maps of the region were completed with features rated, where possible, according to relative significance. Two gridded, summary, composite maps, one for natural components and one for human components, were then compiled. Each grid cell on the natural composite map indexes the significant features in that cell and the land use analog of the ecological serai stage (one of four categories) predominant in that cell. The analog is a comprehensive indicator of the relative degree of natural ecological integrity in the cell. Each grid cell on the human composite map indexes the significant features in that cell and the fair market land value category (one of four categories) predominant in the cell. The land value category is a comprehensive indicator of the human value attributed to that area. The two values for each grid cell on both composite maps are inserted into an analysis/index matrix to yield one of three final analysis/index values. These values, one from a natural perspective and one from a human perspective, indicate areas of overall, relative environmental importance. The natural and the human composite maps may be combined to indicate the areas of potential conflict and tradeoff between these two value systems
