Kevin M Benck

US Patent:

20100070320, Mar 18, 2010

Filed:

Sep 10, 2009

Appl. No.:

12/557349

Inventors:

Michelle Kenna HALSEY - Portland OR, US
Kevin P. Halsey - Portland OR, US
Kevin M. Benck - Scappoose OR, US

International Classification:

G06Q 10/00
G06Q 50/00
G06Q 40/00

US Classification:

705 7, 705 30

Abstract:

An accounting method to measure ecological value (or measurement of functional performance) of a particular site that divides the site into individual map units as determined by the number of substantially homogenous habitats found at the site. Habitat functions are determined per individual map unit. Performance indicators, such as habitat structures, physical and biological features, and other components, are identified and collected according to predefined ranges in the field or from actual site data. The values of performance indicators are assessed or scored based on collected data using look-up tables to create an indicator of functional performance. The indicator of functional performance is inputted into formulas to derive a measurement of functional performance at the individual map unit and the overall site. The accounting method of the present invention can also calculate ecological change at a particular site by calculating initial or baseline site values and a projected future value based on a particular projected modification (e.g., restoration or development) at the site and effects the modification may have over a period of time (e.g., 20 years). The difference between the future and the baseline values, whether a credit (uplift) or debit (impact or site degradation), can then be used in diverse applications, such as mitigation banking, ecological exchanges, registries, or as part of business or government decision/policy making.