Standardization

of the

Continental Divide National Scenic Trail (CDNST)

Data Management

Kerry Shakarjian

University of Denver

Department of Geography

Masters of Science

Geographic Information Science

Project Proposal

Overview

~3,100 miles crossing MT, ID, WY, CO, NM Multiple land management agencies: BLM, NPS, US Forest Service Lead agency = US Forest Service (Lakewood, CO) Lead partner = Continental Divide Trail Alliance (CDTA)

Purpose1. Can multiple agencies utilize the

same data standardization protocol for CDNST?

2. Can database management systems be used across multiple agencies to coordinate CDNST data after collection?

Data Consistency• Varying trail management policies

Different methods/protocols among agencies

Need: Multi-jurisdictional collaboration

• GIS attribute coding disagree

Agency road definitions differ Creates potential for different

interpretation

Need: One method of coding

• Variety of sourcesInconsistent data collection

Need: Systematic data collection

Tool for Managing CDNST• FS Infrastructure database (Infra)

Accountability through

accomplishments

Funding incentives

Spending wisely – future funding

from Congress

• Minimize redundancy to achieve consistency

•Multiple user interface across agency boundaries

Infra’s business flow chart (FS, 2004)

Data Required•Current Infra database access

Why? GIS stored in Infra (data layers, aerials, topos etc.)

•Most up-to-date GIS and Strategic Plan Project Instructions for Completing and Updating CDNST GIS Data

Attribute metadata

•List of key GIS/Infra specialists Within agencies (data collection & integration knowledge)Within the study area (key to pilot project support)

•Most current GIS CDNST dataData needs assessment (pilot project-New Mexico)

Methods• Compare current attributes of CDNST data to standards and criteria for trails

• Use trail data to evaluate Infra in relation to CDNST data

• Redefine data criteria and methods for collecting data

• Determine best technologies for data collection & possible integration into Infra

• Develop, test and modify data dictionaries for collectingCDNST data for populating Infra

• Determine best data dictionary for integration into Infra

Pilot Project Flow ChartNew Mexico CDNST

Bureau of Land Management National Park ServiceU.S. Forest Service

Data Dictionary

Standardize Methodologies

Quality Control (Trail data criteria met?)

Data Attributes

Data Collection

Continental Divide Trail Alliance (CDTA)

Infrastructure Database (or similar format)

Timetable•June-August 08: Compile Trail data standards & criteria

•September-October 08: Complete evaluation of CDNST attributes in a format compatible with Infra

•November 08-February 09: Field work to determine best technologies and evaluate data dictionary

•March-May 09: New Mexico project area data collection using final technology and data dictionary

Develop sample data entry forms for integration into Infra (non-GIS users)

•June-August 09: Final evaluation of data collection method

•September-December 09: Finalize thesis project report

Deliverables

• Final data dictionary for CDNST feature attributes

• Non-GIS Data Entry Form

• User manual for CDNST data collection

Summary

Questions?