RSW2 – Reserve Selection with Weights

RSW2 is a program for solving maximum coverage -type reserve selection problems, where one seeks to maximize conservation value obtained with a limited budget. The novelty in this program is that the conservation value of a reserve network is not merely the number of species represented in it, but is derived using several optional features that make conservation planning more realistic. These include differential species weights according to their conservation priority, continuous benefit functions for species representation, refinements for site size based on the species-area relationship and combining quantitatively site value (replacement cost) with urgency of protection (vulnerability). The software calculates replacement costs for sites, which is a type of irreplaceability measure based on the use of continuous benefit functions.

This software is designed for non-spatial area prioritization. For spatial applications, use the Zonation software.

RSW2 and its documentation has been prepared by Atte Moilanen and Anni Arponen.