Due to the high concentration of linkable 5 hectare forest interiors, the most ecologically significant area surrounded a lake in the northern section of town. Undeveloped forests comprised the greatest portion of the landscape. Developed categories, such as developed forests, recreational facilities, and impervious surfaces, were more frequent in the southeastern section of town, while undeveloped forests and farms were more frequent in the northwestern section. This information has many implications. Water quality can be degraded due to increased runoff.
Wildlife is impacted because of reduced habitat area and lack of connected forest patches.
Urban climates will be affected due to decreased canopy cover. Municipal planning and urban forest management can mitigate the ecological impact of development by using this information to specify species for tree plantings, setting species replacement ratios, and setting guidelines for contiguous forest preservation. Utilization of this data can ensure that the urban forest is a self- sustaining ecosystem that serves and shelters all of its inhabitants.