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CLS = Classification 

 INV = Inventory 

 CHR = Characterization 

 EVL = Evaluation 



Figure 2. Technical analysis components in a schematic network of information flow 

 and feedback pathways in the development of ecological information for use 

 in habitat protection. The input of design requirements from institutional 

 analysis (Fig. 1 ) drives the technical analysis components. An important step 

 is the integration and synthesis of ecological theory, existing data, and 

 available technology (for obtaining new information) into design specifica- 

 tions for the ecological assessment process. It is important to note that the 

 four general steps of assessment (Classification, Inventory, Characteriza- 

 tion, and Evaluation) are designed in reverse sequence of their application, 

 in order to insure efficient and effective delivery of the specified information 

 required for decisionmaking. 



The synthesis of the indicators, constraints, and program needs produces the 

 Study Criteria. It must be recognized that assumptions are frequently made to define 

 the variables of interest (indicators) and programmatic information requirements 

 (scope, resolution, precision, and accuracy) operationally. Secondly, differing 

 requirements must be determined for information targeted for several different levels 

 of decisionmaking. Collectively, this synthesis produces outputs that can be termed 

 Design Requirements. The nature of these design requirements then trigger any or all 

 of several technical subsystems: technological assessment; socio-economic-political 

 assessment; and ecological assessment. Environmental assessment may be consid- 

 ered the integration of the information from these subsystems for the purpose of 



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