Ecological space zoning based on synergies and trade-offs of mountain, water, forest, farmland, lake and grassland

【Objective】 This paper is to propose a method to optimize ecological space zoning and develop scientific management strategies for watersheds. The focus is on clarifying the synergies and trade-offs among mountains, waters, forests, farmlands, lakes, and grasslands. 【Method】 The study takes the Hongfeng Lake watershed as a case study. It is a typical watershed consisting of mountains, water, forests, fields, lakes and grasses. Quantitative and qualitative methods were used to calculates synergies and trade-offs between these sub-ecosystems at both basin scale and local scale. The ecological zoning in the watershed was analyzed by considering the synergistic relationships between mountains, waters, forests, farmlands, lakes and grasslands. 【Result】 The study revealed significant spatial variation in ecological zones within the studied areas. It identified contrasting spatial relationships in the distribution of synergies and trade-offs, particularly between water and other subsystems, as defined by the water intersection line. Key findings include differentiated ecological protection roles of forests and grasslands, high pollution risks facing lakes, and the reliance on rainfall for agriculture outside regions where lakes effectively manage water storage. The watershed was classified into nine ecological control zones, including urban water source protection zones and ecological agricultural zones along the lake and its tributaries. Additionally, mountain areas were designated as ecological industrial development and conservation zones, water source conservation zones, and geo-hazard risk zones. 【Conclusion】 By analyzing the coordination and trade-offs among various ecological components, this study ensures the maximization of ecological diversity within each zoning type. The findings highlight the need for tailored management strategies across different zones to address their unique ecological needs and challenges.