Assessing landscape function is now an established component of rangeland monitoring programs. In this paper, we focus on the spatial arrangement of  perennial vegetation patches as a readily measured and useful indicator of landscape function. We demonstrate work in progress to verify indicators of landscape function. We then show how a recently developed directional leakiness index based on high resolution remotely-sensed imagery may allow up-scaling from ground-based assessment. Concurrent work involving simulation modelling of landscape processes is also contributing to this up- scaling. We explore the potential of satellite imagery, including recently available "hyper- spatial" and hyperspectral data, to
continue this up- scaling to paddock-scale where the real decisions about land management are made. Where vegetation patches are predominantly comprised of palatable forage, there should be a direct link between index values of landscape function and stability of livestock production. But what is the corresponding relationship between landscape function and biodiversity? We discuss possible functional relationships and support these with examples where data are available. Finally we comment on potential developments that may improve the versatility of landscape functional analysis for monitoring rangelands for production and conservation outcomes.
2 - 5 September, 2002
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Kalgoorlie, Western AustraliaÂ
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ISSN 0-9596923-3-9
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Full-text publications from the Australian Rangelands Society (ARS) Biennial Conference Proceedings (1997-), Rangeland Journal (ARS/CSIRO; 1976-), plus videos and other resources about the rangelands of Australia.