The article discusses the methodological aspects of urban area assessment based on the integration of basin, vector, landscape-geochemical and ecological-functional models. Tokmakovsky ravine, located on the southern outskirts of Saratov, was chosen as the object of research. The valley of the ravine is a typical element of the landscape structure of the Volga upland and has preserved traditional forms of nature management. The structural and functional analysis of the model valley complex shows the possibility of using the properties of an erosion network for collecting and cleaning surface runoff. A spatial scheme for the placement of biological compensators based on the existing cascade of ponds has been developed. A town planning solution has also been proposed for the organization of recreational areas in the upper reaches of the catchment area, areas of multi-storey buildings and at the confluence of the Tokmakovsky Creek into the Volgograd reservoir.