ASWM Partners to Create Wetland Mapping Consortium (WMC) Fall 2008: The WMC is an interdisciplinary group of wetland scientists and managers interested in mapping and monitoring wetlands with remotely sensed images and/or using the resultant products to best manage wetland resources. For more information on this developing group, see http://aswm.org/swp/mapping/wetland_mapping_consortium_010509.pdf New Webpage Wetland Mapping Consortium: http://clic.cses.vt.edu/WMC/ New Using the Wetland Mapping Consortium (WMC) Scholar Site (June 23, 2010) http://aswm.org/swp/mapping/using_the_wmc_scholar_site_062310.pdf New Wetlands Classification Image Gallery http://aswm.org/swp/mapping/wetlands_classification_image_gallery_factsheet_060710.pdf New Implementation and Training Program Development for Federal Geographic Data Committee (FGDC) National Standards for the Mapping and Classification of Wetlands Jane Awl (ASWM), Bill Wilen (FWS), JoAnn Mills (FWS), Elaine Blok (FWS), Larry Handley (USGS), Margarete Heber (EPA), Jeanne Christie (ASWM), John Galbraith (VTI), and Megan Lang (USDA) – SWS Presentation – July 2010 Abstract: A new Federal Geographic Data Committee (FGDC) standard for mapping wetlands was accepted in July, 2009. A dynamic implementation plan for this mapping standard was released in January, 2010, and is the first such implementation plan ever developed for an FGDC standard.To view full presentation and to read more, go to: http://aswm.org/swp/mapping/sws2010_implementation_and_training_for_fgdc_wetlands_standards.pdf
ASWM Feature Articles
New A New Mapping Standard* By Jane Awl, Jeanne Christie, Margarete Heber, and Bill Wilen Association of State Wetland Managers, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service http://www.aswm.org/swp/mapping/christie_mapping.pdf Mapping Coalitions* By Jeanne Christie and Leah Stetson Association of State Wetland Managers http://www.aswm.org/swp/mapping/christie_mapping.pdf (*Reprinted with permission from Environmental Law Institute/National Wetlands Newsletter)
New 9/09 Mapping Wetlands Together: Identifying Partners for Coalitions, by Leah Stetson, ASWM (9/09) Once organizations start to team up and collaborate for wetland mapping projects, more can be achieved. Several members notified us of new developments in wetland mapping after reading the mapping article in ASWM’s August 2008 newsletter. It was clear that much of the mapping work undertaken in states was collaborative. In some states, there is a lot of opportunity for agencies and organizations to work together in acquiring imagery and/or mapping wetland resources. So ASWM queried wetland staff and GIS specialists from around the country to identify potential, and sometimes surprising, partners in building a wetland mapping coalition. [Read more]
Wetland Mapping – From Mylar to Mosaics and Beyond, by Leah Stetson, ASWM (8/08) Mapping has indeed come a long way from the introduction of paper maps that have been used for centuries. Geographic information systems (GIS) maps have been around since the 1960s, but primarily available to the federal government and to a limited number of groups who had the technical expertise to apply it. Since the 1990s, however, a wider range of organizations, including state wetland programs, have been equipped with the technology, funding and the basic data to begin mapping natural resources. [Read more] Back to Top
Wetlands Mapping Standard
New 11/30/09 Wetlands Mapping Standard ASWM has added a new webpage with more detailed information and additional links on the new Wetlands Mapping Standard.
Added 8/19/09 Federal Wetlands Mapping Standard Approved Contact: Vanessa Kauffman – FWS News Release – August 18, 2009 Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar announced today the adoption of a Wetlands Mapping Standard that provides minimum requirements and guidelines for wetlands mapping efforts. The new standard is designed to guide current and future wetlands digital mapping projects and enhance the overall quality and consistency of wetlands data. Quality data on wetlands are considered critical for planning effective conservation strategies to benefit fish and wildlife resources now and in the future. Wetlands are among the Nation’s most biologically productive and economically important habitat types. Major emerging conservation issues, such as changing temperatures, sea-level rise, increasing storm severity, drought, energy development, and species declines are making the need for contemporary geospatial resource information even more important. “There is no doubt the negative impacts of climate change on fish and wildlife will be significant. A major conservation challenge is predicting the level of those impacts and determining what management actions can be taken to help species adapt. And open access to accurate, up-to-date geospatial wetlands information is critical to meeting this challenge,” said Salazar. “We need to know what kinds of wetlands are out there, where they are, and where they might be in the future. The adoption of a new standard with mapping guidelines will enable partners from all levels of government, academia and the private sector to work together to produce a wealth of updated and accurate wetlands information.”  For more information on the wetland mapping subcommittee, visit: http://www.fws.gov/wetlands/wetlandslayer/wetlandssubcommittee.html  For a direct link to the federal wetland mapping standard, go to: http://www.fws.gov/wetlands/_documents/gNSDI/FGDCWetlandsMappingStandard.pdf
Draft Wetland Mapping Standard – July 2008 The Federal Geographic Data Committee (FGDC) Wetlands Mapping Standard is designed to direct the current and future digital mapping of wetlands and deepwater habitats where federal funds are involved. For access to this draft, go to: http://www.fgdc.gov/standards/projects/FGDC-standards-projects/wetlandsmapping/FINAL%20- %20FGDC%20Draft%20Wetland%20Mapping%20Standard%20July%202008.pdf/view? searchterm=wetland%20mapping%20standard Or try http://www.fgdc.gov/standards/projects/FGDC-standards-projects/wetlands-mapping/FINAL%20-%20FGDC%20Draft%20Wetland%20Mapping%20Standard%20July%202008.pdf
Media Coverage
NOAA Coastal Services: Digital Coast Website CSO Weekly Report - The NOAA Coastal Services Center recently upgraded its Digital Coast website to include improved graphics, search functionality, and updated filters for narrowing down content within pages, visit: www.csc.noaa.gov/digitalcoast. Improvements include a video tour of Digital Coast; Coastal socio-economic data from Census and the Bureau of Economic Analysis; Archive of "Recent Updates" so users can see what’s been updated beyond most recent items listed on the front page; and more visible Digital Coast listserv sign-up.
GIS Analysis of the Surface Drinking Water Provided by Intermittent, Ephemeral, and Headwater Streams in the U.S. This map (PDF) (1 pg, 669K) shows the results of a series of geographic information systems (GIS) analyses examining the extent of different types of streams in the continental United States at the county level. The map was generated as part of an analysis aimed at illuminating regional patterns of dependence on intermittent, ephemeral and headwater streams for water to supply public drinking water systems in the United States, using the most recent, valid data available. In the continental United States, about 117 million people, over one third of the total U.S. population, get some or all of their drinking water from public drinking water systems that rely at least in part on intermittent, ephemeral, or headwater streams. In the continental U.S., 357,404 total miles of streams provide water for public drinking water systems. Of that total, 58% (207,476 miles) are intermittent, ephemeral, or headwater streams. A more detailed summary of the analysis and breakdown of the results by state and by county are presented. http://www.epa.gov/owow/wetlands/science/surface_drinking_water/
CA: Wetlands map, guide highlights local areas The Times-Standard – February 4, 2010 Friends of the Dunes has announced the release of the “2010 Humboldt Bay Beaches, Dunes and Wetlands Map and Guide.” The free map and guide highlights natural areas where people can enjoy a variety of coastal habitats while providing in-depth information about local natural history and the importance of conserving the beauty and diversity of the coast. For full story, go to: http://www.times-standard.com/lifestyle/ci_14331642
NASS RELEASES NEW GEOSPATIAL DATA PRODUCTS New Satellite Images Show Ag Land Cover for 2009 Crop Year WASHINGTON, Jan. 28, 2010 - The U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) today announced the release of new satellite images depicting agricultural land cover across most of the nation for the 2009 crop year. The images, referred to as cropland data layers (CDL), are a useful tool for monitoring crop rotation patterns, land use changes, water resources and carbon emissions. For full news release, go to http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/!ut/p/_s.7_0_A/7_0_1OB/.cmd/ad/.ar/sa.retrievecontent/.c/6_2_ 1UH/.ce/7_2_5JM/.p/5_2_4TQ/.d/1/_th/J_2_9D/_s.7_0_A/7_0_1OB?PC_7_2_5JM_ contentid=2010%2F01%2F0036.xml&PC_7_2_5JM_parentnav=LATEST_RELEASES &PC_7_2_5JM_navid=NEWS_RELEASE#7_2_5JM
SLAMM 6, Official Release The SLAMM 6 model now supports time-varying feedbacks to the vertical accretion of wetlands. Feedbacks based on wetland elevations, distance to channel, and salinity may be specified along with a time-variable turbidity factor. The salinity module has been rewritten and improved but remains fairly simple. The SLAMM 6 graphical interface has been significantly redesigned including OpenGL 3D mapping. Wetland elevation-range parameters have been brought into the model interface and the model is considerably more flexible in this regard. Elevation and salinity by land-cover statistics are automatically produced. SLAMM 6 includes a command-line mode to support externally driven sensitivity and uncertainty analyses. For more information about this release, and how to obtain the model, please visit the following site: http://warrenpinnacle.com/SLAMMFORUM/index.php?topic=55.0 For questions and comments about the SLAMM model please utilize the SLAMM Forum . Link to the Technical Documentation. http://warrenpinnacle.com/prof/SLAMM6/SLAMM6_Technical_Documentation.pdf
Interim North Central and Northeast Regional Supplement for Corps 1987 Wetland Delineation Manual The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, New England District, announces the publication and one year trial implementation period of the Interim Northcentral and Northeast Regional Supplement (“supplement”) to the 1987 Wetland Delineation Manual (“1987 Manual”). This supplement was developed by wetland delineation experts from state and Federal agencies and academia with experience within this area. For the public notice, go to: http://www.nae.usace.army.mil/reg/10/spn020210-1987Manual.pdf
Mapping America's giant trees By Peter Bowes – BBC News – Yosemite National Park – July 20, 2009 Scientists in California have set up a unique experiment to track the life histories of some of the world's oldest and tallest trees.The project is designed to follow up research, in the Yosemite National Park, which suggests that giant trees are perishing as a result of climate change. An analysis of data collected over 60 years has led scientists from the University of Washington and the Yosemite Field Station of the US Geological Survey, to conclude that the density of large diameter trees fell by 24% between the 1930s and 1990s. For full story, with video, go to: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/americas/8159025.stm
Opening the USGS Landsat Archive to the world! The Electronic access to the entire USGS Landsat 7 archive, enabling users to download standard-format scenes at no charge, has been an amazing  success, with over 225,000 scenes downloaded since October 1st. Previously acquired imagery from Landsat 1 through Landsat 5, is also now available for download at no charge using the same standard processing format. Processing parameters and other details about the products can be found at http://landsat.usgs.gov/
Sea Level Rise Simulations Are Now Available Online
Contact: Contact: Vanessa Kauffman – USFWS News Release – April 22, 2009 The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service today released a new user-friendly internet tool that allows the public to view simulations of sea level rise . Released in honor of Earth Day, this program is designed to help people understand the potential impacts of climate change on sea levels. The Sea Level Affecting Marshes Model (SLAMM)-View is a web browser-based application that displays map pairs of the same area, each at different sea levels. The strength of this tool is its ability to visually show the modeling of sea level rise predictions, allowing people to see the impacts in a more intuitive way. The SLAMM view tool could be accessed at http://www.fws.gov/chesapeakebay/slamm and http://www.slammview.org  For full news release , go to: http://www.fws.gov/news/NewsReleases/showNews.cfm?newsId=CF70C5E0-DD1E-33CA-3D0BD4FB2BD3F890
Wisconsin Wetland Mapping Update - April 2009
Natural Areas and Critical Species Habitat Plan Update for SE Wisconsin http://www.sewrpc.org/publications/planningprogramreport/2009-04_natural_area_plan_update_newsletter.pdf Advanced Identification of Disposal Areas for Wetlands and Other Waters (ADID) http://www.sewrpc.org/environmental/adid_wetlands/
Impacts of Sea-Level Rise Threaten California Coast
Pacific Institute – March 11, 2009 In an analysis prepared for three California state agencies, the Pacific Institute estimates that 480,000 people; a wide range of critical infrastructure , such as roads, hospitals, schools, and emergency facilities; vast areas of wetlands and other natural ecosystems; and nearly $100 billion in property along the California coast are at increased risk from flooding from a 1.4-meter sea-level rise – if no adaptation actions are taken. Commissioned by the Ocean Protection Council, the Public Interest Research Program of the California Energy Commission , and the California Department of Transportation , this comprehensive assessment of the impacts of sea-level rise puts California in the lead in trying to understand and adapt to the possible consequences of climate change . For full press release, go to: http://www.pacinst.org/press_center/press_releases/sea_level_rise_3_11_09.html
Scientists updating state wetland maps
By Leah Hoenen – Cape Gazette – January 20, 2009 State scientists are updating wetlands maps, a project that allows them to see how many wetlands acres the state has lost in the past 15 years, when the last maps were produced. Recent Supreme Court cases have lifted federal protection from certain nontidal freshwater wetlands, known for their ability to filter harmful pollutants from groundwater. Some scientists are concerned rolling back federal protection may harm the waterways scientists and others worked hard to protect. Chris Bason, science and technical coordinator for the Center for the Inland Bays, said, “We have made progress in one area, but may be going backward in others.” For full story, go to: http://www.capegazette.com/storiescurrent/200901/wetlandmaps20.html
IN: Interactive map to focus on Indiana Wetlands
Carroll County Comet – January 14, 2009 One of Indiana's most overlooked natural resources are wetland ecosystems, and the Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) has created a new Web site to offer a glimpse into the state's varied wetland ecosystems. The newest Internet offering, a Wetlands virtual tour, can be found at www.wetlands.IN.gov. Wetlands, which store rainwater and slow the movement of floodwater, can be affected by construction projects. IDEM administers several permits regarding construction, excavation, and dredging projects that propose to impact Indiana's wetlands, streams, rivers, and lakes. "This Web-based educational component highlights just a few of the vibrant wetlands across the state of Indiana," said Thomas Easterly, IDEM commissioner. "Our goal is to help children and adults learn about the significance and beauty of these important natural resources." For full story, go to: http://www.carrollcountycomet.com/news/2009/0114/Community/040.html
New Maps Show Playa Wetland Locations in Six States
Contact: Debbie Slobe – Playa Lakes Joint Venture press release – September 3, 2008 Wondering how many playas are in your backyard? New maps are available from the Playa Lakes Joint Venture (PLJV) that pinpoint the locations of more than 60,000 playa wetlands in 155 counties across six states in the region. All 155 maps are available for download from the PLJV website. “We hope these maps help landowners identify wetland resources on their properties and seek out ways to conserve them,” said Megan McLachlan, PLJV Geographic Information System (GIS) Analyst. Multiple sources of geographic data went into making the maps, including the National Wetlands Inventory (NWI), Soil Survey Geographic (SSURGO) database and satellite imagery. The data were analyzed for each state where playas are found – Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas – to create the most accurate playa location map possible using remote sources. In some cases, field studies on playas contributed to the mapping process. In southwest Nebraska and eastern Colorado, researchers surveying playas were able to provide PLJV information on playa conditions and locations. For information and the maps, go to: http://www.pljv.org/cms/playa-county-maps
CSUN is leading the charge in mapping of the wetlands
By Connie Llanos – Los Angeles Daily News – August 30, 2008 Armed with maps and high-tech compasses, the young scientists stared out into the vast tan landscape. Just a century ago, this swath of coastal land was teeming with small creeks and streams, moist soil and dozens of animal species. But today, a large section of Ormond Beach's wetlands is more dry than wet. Ringed by factories, the wetlands' dirt hills and dry grass mounds are the final resting place for a graffiti-covered train on a forgotten railroad. "It's just a remnant of what it used to be," professor Shawna Dark said to her team of students. For full article, go to: http://www.dailynews.com/news/ci_10339831
Wetlands get new spy cam http://news.findlaw.com/csmonitor/s/ 20040122/22jan2004085858.html State teams up with Ducks Unlimited for wetlands survey By Rick Callahan – Chicago Tribune – August 21, 2008 The conservation group Ducks Unlimited is scouring Indiana's marshes and swamps to prepare the first inventory in nearly 20 years of the state's dwindling wetlands. The Memphis, Tenn.-based nonprofit will combine aerial photographs with fieldwork to gauge changes in the state's wetlands since the last survey was published in 1991, said Rob Elstro, a spokesman for the Indiana Department of Environmental Management. Under a memo of understanding with IDEM, Elstro said Ducks Unlimited will receive $90,000 to produce data for the revised inventory using its network of volunteers, who will tromp through wetlands, estimate their size and take digital photos to compare with the aerial maps. He said the new survey set for completion late next year will help guide future development, provide more accurate surface water modeling and aid in wildlife management and conservation. For full story, go to: http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/chi-ap-in-agr-wetlandssurve,0,3285126.story
MD: Bay mapping will aid restoration efforts
By Colleen Kelleher – WTOP Radio News – August 8, 2008 Imagine heading out on a road trip without a map. For a nearby journey that may not sound like a big deal. You could drive around until you find your destination. You could ask directions. You could stop and buy a map. All are viable options. Now imagine trying to coordinate an entire state's Chesapeake Bay restoration efforts without a map. "Some agencies didn't even have a paper map to document and lay out where all of their bay restoration efforts were," says Donald Boesch, a bay scientist who heads up the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science. For full article, go to: http://www.wtop.com/?sid=1455847&nid=768
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Wetland Mapping Around the Globe
India: ISRO Engaged In Satellite Mapping Of Wetlands Space Daily - July 26, 2010 The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is engaged in the satellite mapping of the country's wetlands and will complete the project by the end of August, Environment Minister Jairam Ramesh said. For full article, go to: http://www.spacedaily.com/reports/ISRO_Engaged_In_Satellite_Mapping_Of_Wetlands_999.html
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State Wetland Programs & Partners
California Awareness Floodplains http://www.fpm.water.ca.gov/mapping/ awareness_mapping.cfm Missouri mapping  http://www.aswm.org/swp/mapping/august_2008/ wetland_mapping_efforts_in_missouri_8_08.pdf Montana’s Natural Heritage Program http://nhp.nris.mt.gov/  & http://nhp.nris.mt.gov/STEW.ASP New York Freshwater Wetlands Program http://www.dec.ny.gov/lands/4937.html#Wetlands
Interactive Wetland Mapping tool with North Carolina Division of Coastal Management http://dcm3.enr.state.nc.us/website/nccoastal_wetlands/viewer.htm
Vermont Stream Geomorphic Assessment Protocols http://www.anr.state.vt.us/dec/waterq/rivers/htm/rv_geoassesspro.htm
FEMA Map Center http://msc.fema.gov/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/FemaWelcomeView?storeId =10001&catalogId=10001&langId=-1
FEMA’s Community Rating System (CRS) http://www.fema.gov/business/nfip/crs.shtm
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources - Wetlands Program http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/eco/wetlands/index.html
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Publications/Reports/Research
GIS Analysis of the Surface Drinki ng Water Provided by Intermittent, Ephemeral and Headwater Streams in the U.S. The U.S. Environmental Proection Agency has conducted and analysis to examine the extent of different types of streams in the continental United States at the county level. The map was generated as part of an analysisaimed at illuminating regional patterns of dependence on intermittent, ephemeral and headwater streams for water to supply public drinking water systems in the United States, using the most recent, valid data available. In the continental United States, about 117 million people, over one third of the total U.S. population, get some or all of their drinking water from public drinking water systems that rely at least in part on intermittent, ephemeral, or headwater streams. In the continental U.S., 357,404 total miles of streams provide water for public drinking water systems. Of that total, 58% (207,476 miles) are intermittent, ephemeral, or headwater streams. A more detailed summary of the analysis (PDF) (2 pp, 76K) and breakdown of the results by state (PDF) (1 pg, 175K) and by county (PDF) (31 pp, 3.8MB) are presented. http://www.epa.gov/owow/wetlands/science/surface_drinking_water/
New Oregon Wetlands Geodatabase Website Launched! A statewide wetlands geodatabase containing wetland mapping and hydric soils mapping based on NWI and SSURGO, but enhanced with extensive additional mapping from state, federal, and local governments, NGOs, nonprofits, and academia. Other datasets include FEMA flood zones, sites in the NRCS Wetland Reserve Program, existing wetland mitigation banks, boundaries of local wetland inventories, and recommended priority sites for use in wetland conservation, enhancement, and mitigation. The Oregon Explorer website is at: http://oregonexplorer.info/wetlands/
Added 1/7/10 Status Report for the National Wetlands Inventory Program: 2009
Edited by Ralph W Tiner - October 2009 - U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Division of Habitat and Resource Conservation. This report summarizes the status, products, history, and uses of NWI data. To view report, go to: http://www.fws.gov/wetlands/ or go directly to: http://www.fws.gov/wetlands/_documents/gOther/StatusReportNWIProgram2009.pdf
Satellite Imagery Maps Environmentally Important Texas Black Mangrove
Authors: J.H. Everitt, C. Yang, et. al. - A study published in the Journal of Coastal Research supports previous research in the Texas Gulf Coast and Caribbean coast of Panama showing that high-resolution satellite imagery can be used to accurately map black mangrove. The benefits of mangrove, a woody plant, are well-known. These plants provide a safe environment for various animals to breed and protection from hurricanes and tidal waves by preventing shoreline erosion. Therefore, monitoring their existence is of environmental import. Because black mangroves are often located in areas that are difficult to access, satellite imaging is an excellent tool for mapping these plants. In addition, satellite imaging is able to distinguish between black mangrove, wet soil and seagrass, mixed vegetation, soil or roads, and water. The authors applied unsupervised and supervised image analysis techniques to study data obtained from QuickBird satellite sensors. The overall accuracy of black mangrove identification was 90%, which is comparable to that obtained by other researchers. To read the entire study, Using High Resolution Satellite Imagery to Map Black Mangrove on the Texas Gulf Coast (2008, Vol. 24.6, pg. 1582-1586) visit: http://www.allenpress.com/pdf/COAS_24.6_1582.pdf  For more information, visit: http://www.cerf-jcr.org/
Radar Wetland Mapping for Great Lakes Basin Infrastructure
December 5, 2008 - An international, multi-agency group has formed to prepare and implement new radar remote sensing technologies to assist in the tasks of wetland infrastructure mapping and monitoring for the Great Lakes Basin. NASA JPL and the U of Michigan have already mapped the entire state of Alaska with radar image technology.  Michigan Tech Research Institute has also demonstrated wetland mapping techniques with radar including identifying invasive phragmites near Detroit.  Radar mapping technology has be ability to provide more frequent views of the landscape throughout the entire year (regardless of cloud cover) which enables better forecasting of flooding, habitat and landcover changes.  This is important as the demand for more frequent information increase for infrastructure development and climate change. If your organization is interested in becoming involved with this effort, or for more information, please contact Brian Huberty, NWI Coordinator, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service – (612) 713-5332 brian_huberty@fws.gov and see http://www.aswm.org/swp/mapping/radar_wetland_mapping.pdf
Background on LLWW Descriptors by Ralph Tiner, FWS – December 2008
This document provides background on the development of hydrogeomorphic-type properties for wetland maps. These properties are called “LLWW descriptors” and the document includes a list of project areas where they have been applied. http://www.aswm.org/swp/mapping/background_llww_123008.pdf
Wetlands Interactive Mapper Online
The USFWS National Wetlands Inventory launched the Wetlands Interactive Mapper, a web-based, browser-driven system that allows the general public to view digital wetlands data, conduct simple processing (e.g., zoom, pan, identify, etc.) and print a custom map on their desk top printer. Users must have a web browser. Netscape 4.x or Internet Explorer 4.01 work best. The goal of the mapper is to provide information to meet the public's needs concerning their local wetlands and deepwater habitats. It will help people identify potential opportunities and potential problems, set goals, and determine the actions necessary to maintain or improve the "livability" of their communities. The mapper can be found on the NWI web site at http://www.nwi.fws.gov or http://wetlands.fws.gov
“Land Area Change in Coastal Louisiana (from 1956 – 2006)” By John A. Barras, Julie C. Bernier, and Robert A. Morton http://pubs.usgs.gov/sim/3019/
Common Questions: Wetland Definition, Delineation, and Mapping by Jon Kusler, Association of State Wetland Managers, Inc. (06/26/06)
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Events
Added 2/22/10 Presentation on Sea Level Affecting Marshes Model (SLAMM) and SLAMM-View to be held February 23, 2010 The Ecosystem-Based Management (EBM) Tools Network is pleased to announce that it will host demonstrations of the Sea Level Affecting Marshes Model (SLAMM) and SLAMM-View by Jonathan Clough of Warren Pinnacle Consulting and Jeff Ehman of Image Matters. This presentation will be held on February 23 at 2 pm US EST and 11 am US PST. The Sea Level Affecting Marshes Model (SLAMM) simulates the dominant processes involved in wetland conversions and shoreline modifications during long-term sea level rise.  Map distributions of wetlands are predicted under conditions of accelerated sea level rise, and results are summarized in tabular and graphical form.  SLAMM 6.0 (open source) has just been released and can be downloaded at http://warrenpinnacle.com/SLAMMFORUM/index.php?topic=55.0.  SLAMM-View is a web-based visualization tool that portrays pairs of mapped simulation results from one or more sea level rise scenarios and time steps in conjunction with other thematic layers (e.g. state and county boundaries, NWI wetland areas) that provide context.  Analysis tools provide summaries of changes for user-defined areas.  Learn more about SLAMM at www.warrenpinnacle.com/prof/SLAMM/index.html and SLAMM-View at www.slammview.org.  For information, go to: http://www.ebmtools.org/february-23-2010-presentation-sea-level-affecting-marshes-model-slamm-and-slamm-view.html or to reserve your Webinar seat now, go to: https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/866509713
Links of Interest
Mapping and Climate Change
SLAMM – related projects and presentations via Indiana University http://www.spea.indiana.edu/wetlandsandclimatechange/archive.htm
SLAMM – Warren Pinnacle Consulting (contains a good overview of the dev’t of SLAMM) http://warrenpinnacle.com/prof/SLAMM/index.html
SLAMM Bibliography – list of publications related to the Sea Level Affecting Marsh Model http://warrenpinnacle.com/prof/SLAMM/Bibliography.html
National Wetland Inventory
USFWS NWI – Status and Trends http://www.fws.gov/nwi/ National Wetland Inventory – Info on
Cowardin Classification System http://www.fws.gov/nwi/Pubs_Reports/ Class_Manual/class_titlepg.htm
USFWS Wetlands Geodatabase & wetland mapper http://wetlandsfws.er.usgs.gov/NWI/index.html
Floodplain Mapping Links
Floodplains Key to Health of Lake Champlain http://www.anr.state.vt.us/dec/waterq/rivers/docs/rv_FloodplainsKey.pdf
Watershed Concepts - Floodplains analysis http://www.watershedconcepts.com/services/FloodplainAnalysis.html
California Awareness Floodplains http://www.fpm.water.ca.gov/mapping/awareness_mapping.cfm
General Links
Glossary of mapping terms, GIS Development http://www.gisdevelopment.net/glossary/index.htm s
Dewberry http://www.dewberry.com/
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Job, Training and Research Opportunities
Added 8/19/09 Wetland Mapping Position – Research Technician The Smithsonian Environmental Research Center (SERC) has an opening for a research technician on a team using geographic information system (GIS) technology and ecological modeling in regional studies of the Chesapeake Bay watershed and estuary.  The research considers the factors controlling material discharges from watersheds; the relationships between landscape characteristics and aquatic ecosystem health; and the linkages among watersheds, wetlands, and estuaries. Applicants should have experience with GIS and statistical analysis and a Bachelors or Masters degree in science, geography, mathematics, or information systems (or equivalent experience).  The successful applicant will build skills in watershed modeling, landscape ecology, ecosystem ecology, biogeochemistry, nutrient transport, hydrology, stream ecology, computer programming, data base management, remote sensing, and ecological assessment of water quality and stream biota.  This is a Career Federal Civil Service position offered at the GS-7 or GS-9 level with a full performance level at GS-9.  Starting salary is $41,210 at the GS-7/1 level or $50,408 at the GS-9/1 level (plus benefits). The official announcement and application instructions are available at www.ussajobs.gov.  Refer to announcement number: 09A-RM-295475-DEU-SERC. For more information on SERC visit http://www.serc.si.edu.
Texas A&M University, North Carolina A&T State University, and NC State University, are co-sponsoring workshops designed to introduce users to the Soil & Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) and Agricultural Policy Environmental eXtender models (APEX). It is assumed that attendees have a working knowledge of ArcGIS. The workshops will not review basic concepts on ArcGIS usage prior to covering the SWAT/ArcGIS interface. About the workshops: SWAT is a river basin scale model developed to quantify the impact of land management practices in large, complex watersheds. It is a public domain model actively supported by the USDA Agricultural Research Service at the Grassland, Soil and Water Research Laboratory in Temple, Texas. For more details, please visit the Official SWAT Website at: http://www.brc.tamus.edu/swat/ Beginner SWAT Workshop (Nov. 16-17, 2009 - Greensboro, NC): This workshop is designed to introduce new users to the model, review necessary and optional inputs, and familiarize the user with the ArcGIS interfaces. APEX Workshop (Nov. 18, 2009 - Greensboro, NC): This course was developed for use in whole farm/small watershed management. The model was constructed to evaluate various land management strategies considering sustainability, erosion (wind, sheet, and channel), economics, water supply and quality, soil quality, plant competition, weather and pests. Advanced SWAT Workshop (Nov. 19-20, 2009 - Raleigh, NC): This course will cover sensitivity analysis, model calibration, and uncertainty analysis using the 2005 version of SWAT with an ArcGIS interface. In addition, there will be a discussion of participant's individual model issues (e.g. model setup, scenarios, calibration, and validation). For more information, please go to: http://guest.cvent.com/EVENTS/Info/Summary.aspx?e=13b22402-fe4e-43e3-8ec8-10d6d0ad0277
GIS & Remote Sensing for Natural Resource Managers: An Introduction to the use of Geographic Information Systems & Remote Sensing in Conservation and Natural Resource Management
1-5 June 2009.  Increasingly, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing - the mapping of features using imagery acquired either from an aircraft or a satellite - have become important tools for decision-making and the applied management of natural resources.  Many federal agencies and NGOs rely on GIS and satellite data for their work and are starting to produce their own spatial databases.  However, there are few training opportunities for natural resource managers to learn the applications of GIS in everyday management situations.  This is a course for natural resource managers that provides hands-on experience in collection of data, GIS analysis of data, and map-making using the latest ESRI (ArcGIS) and ERDAS software. This short course will provide natural managers with a working knowledge about the application of GIS and Remote Sensing to the monitoring and management of resources such as wildlife and forest vegetation.  Exercises in establishing locations with a Global Positioning System (GPS), data input into a GIS, and spatial analysis techniques for GIS will provide hands-on and real world experience during the course.  For more details and registration information, go to: http://nationalzoo.si.edu/ConservationAndScience/ConservationGIS/GIS_training/introduction/ **Note: The CRC offers an Advanced Course in Conservation GIS and Remote Sensing, June 8-12, 2009. For more information on any of our courses please see: http://nationalzoo.si.edu/ConservationAndScience/ConservationGIS/GIS_training/
Assistant Botanist/Mapping Specialist (Madison, WI)
The Wisconsin Natural Heritage Inventory program is looking for a new assistant botanist. Description: Golden Sands Resource Conservation and Development Council, Inc. Job Title: Assistant Botanist/Mapping Specialist, Natural Heritage Inventory Job Location: Madison, Wisconsin Job Status: Fulltime/Salaried Essential Functinos: The Assistant Botanist/Mapping Specialist will assist with or perform data management and collection of Wisconsin's endangered, threatened and special concern plant species and will work closely with all members of the state heritage staff. Duties include botanical field surveys, data entry, mapping, and quality control for Natural Heritage database, and assisting with project reports. Duties also include providing commentary to environmental review staff and establishing and maintaining contacts within the Wisconsin and the network of Natural Heritage botanical communities. Surveys may require long periods of fieldwork and extensive travel throughout the state. (Additional information about the Natural Heritage network can be found at www.natureserve.org)
Send your resume and professional references with a cover letter by February 6, 2009 to: Debra Hunt at huntd@co.portage.wi.us
Mapping Resources
Richard Gitar Water Regulatory Specialist Office of Water Protection Fond du Lac Reservation 1720 Big Lake Road Cloquet, Minneosta 55720 Phone: 218-878-8022 Fax: 218-879-4854 Email: richardgitar@fdlrez.com
Steve Kloiber Wetland Monitoring Coordinator Minnesota Dept. of Natural Resources Ecological Resources Division 500 Lafayette Road, Box 25 St. Paul, MN  55155 651-259-5164 steve.kloiber@state.mn.us
Bill O. Wilen National Wetlands Inventory 703-358-2278 Bill_Wilen@fws.gov
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