A team of experienced biologists developed line charts to inventory the important components of wildlife habitat and transformation charts to convert the inventoried characteristics to habitat values for specific species for a Maryland Piedmont watershed. The line chart system gave results equivalent to the procedure recently developed by the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service with less field time. In addition, the line charts display the basis for all conclusions, provide a simplified base for determining future conditions, and are easily adapted to computer analysis. The value ratings from this system provide a firm foundation for assessing the effects on wildlife habitat of water resource project alternatives and for planning any needed mitigating or compensation measures.
