Protected Area

The article examines the application of topological concepts for analysing the structure and assessing the compactness of a regional settlement system. A methodology is proposed that adapts classical topological invariants to evaluate real transport-planning networks using OpenStreetMap data, taking into account physical-geographical and legislative constraints. Instead of abstract node connectivity indices in the settlement system graph, a new operational indicator – the “exit index” – is introduced.

The article shows problems of large-scale Protected Areas of Saratov region conservation with the example of Zmeevogorskiy degraded mountain. Authors consider existing system of nature management on researched area and nature conservation problems that are related to the system of nature management. As a result of the research, authors suggest the outline of functional zoning of South part of ?Zmeevi mountains? natural monument territory. Also strategical line of development of large regional Protected Areas is shown