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GIS Mapping & Analysis
A Geographic Information System (GIS) is a system of software that captures, stores, analyzes, and presents digital data that corresponds to real-world, geographic locations. At WRA, GIS is used as an integral component for all levels of scientific investigation: including the display of datasets captured by a Global Positioning System (GPS) during field visits, accurate calculation of feature acreages, the spatial overlay of multiple layers to determine habitat suitability and project impacts, aerial photograph interpretation and digitizing, and the modeling of elevation surfaces and derivational analysis of slope, aspect, drainage, watershed, viewshed, and solar radiation are just a subset of how we implement the use of GIS.
WRA's GIS Mapping & Analysis department has over 25 years accumulated experience of working primarily with GIS. We are also proficient working within the AutoCAD environment and can facilitate accurate geo-referencing so that a project's data can be transferred between GIS and other software like AutoCAD, Google Earth, and Adobe PDF. Although most projects require detailed spatial analysis, we offer Rapid Biological Resources Assessment services, which can be used for an economic, preliminary determination of a project site’s environmental resources.
GIS SERVICES:
Basic Mapping & Existing Databases
WRA's GIS abilities and map output begins with the basics—displaying project locations and spatial relationships to existing data sets. This enables us to inform our clients about any possible issues or opportunities associated with their project. We possess an extensive and continuously updated and expanding digital library of GIS data from local, regional, federal, and global authorities. The examples below represent a small sample of our basic mapping services.
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Mapping, Managing, and Remote-Sensing Spatial Data
Mapping based upon site visits or creating data from remote sensing of high-resolution aerial photography requires complex detail and skill. As demonstrated in the examples below, WRA has expertise in managing large spatial databases for long term monitoring efforts. Additionally, advanced training in taking GPS data gets incorporated into Army Corps specified maps for jurisdictional determination of waters. Also, with sophisticated aerial segmentation software, we can accurately remote sense a variety of vegetation habitats. Mapping for recreational activities is shown in the last example.
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Spatial Analysis
WRA performs spatial analysis on a broad range of geographic inquiry. We assess the impact a project could have on sensitive resources and determine precise acreage calculations for permitting efforts. Essential to conservation banking efforts, we will map existing resources with projected resources and therefore maximize bank credits—a bank's economic viability. Below are examples of impact analysis and bank credit potential, as well as an example of feature buffering and proximity analysis to determine corridors for a sensitive species.
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Topographic Surface Modeling, Analysis, and Visualization
WRA is well versed in acquiring the highest quality elevation data sets that are available, whether this be LiDAR, imported from survey contours, or USGS. These data sets allow us to derive important geographic visualization and analysis. The examples below show a variety of analysis such as surface modeling for flooding conditions and sea level rise. We also use elevation to determine potential drainage channels, species suitable habitat, and optimal locations for revegetation based on solar radiation and viewshed. In the last example we delineated watersheds to examine past and future internal encroachment.
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Automated Spatial Modeling for Complex Datasets
For the most difficult spatial questions, automated GIS modeling is often required in order to determine a cost-effective and accurate solution. In the first example below an automated model was created to factor in slope, soil production, and woody cover to determine carrying capacity for grazing management. In the second example a weighted overlay model was used to create a conservation strategy at a regional scale.
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