Characteristics of the Aurland flora and consequences of the regulation

Abstract

This paper synthesizes the main results of botanical investigations carried out within the Aurland river catchment. The data include floristic records from the area prior to regulation, data sampling in connection with the hydropower development (1966–1979), and own investigations during 1988–1992. The investigation includes both general data on plant distribution within the whole catchment, and more detailed analyses from selected localities. Special emphasis is given to a floristic comparison of the Aurland catchment in relation to other catchments in W. Norway, and thereby giving an evaluation of the botanical value of the area. The floristic composition of the whole catchment is compared with that of 60 other catchments in W. Norway using numerical methods. Botanical consequences as a result of the regulation are investigated on both a general scale and a detailed scale related to the river regulation.