Features Recorded from Field Surveys

Survey sub-sites where features of landscape value were observed have been extracted as a layer of points for incorporation with the habitat map. When a habitat polygon contains a point, it is flagged as having recreational value.

Features Identified from Existing Information

Features were created using Lands Department 1:5,000 topographic data as an on screen backdrop.

• Scenic Spot: These were digitised from information downloaded from the AFCD Homepage (on 16 February 2000) as points using ArcView and converted into ArcInfo format for use in map compilation. The points are attributed with name and type of scenic spot.

Existing information available for identification of valued landscape areas and opportunistic notes on landscape features recorded during ecological field surveys were assessed against the criteria set forth for landscape value.

While the majority of the references reviewed provide no specific indication on the locations where valued landscape features have been recorded, a few could be used as a reference for assigning a "+" to the valued landscape sites identified on the habitat map, but direct digitisation is not possible as exact co-ordinate locations of the identified areas were not provided.

During ecological field surveys, various landscape features have been identified, including coastline, prominent watercourse, valley, forest and fishpond. These features were assessed against the criteria set forth for landscape value and a "+" was assigned to those habitat polygons where one or more valued landscape features have been identified. Locations of the valued landscape features identified are shown in Figure 8.3a.