Portfolio Description
We partnered with the Hudson River Watershed Alliance to develop a cutting-edge GIS mapping solution for two pilot watersheds: the Sparkill Creek Watershed and the Roe Jansen Watershed. This project aimed to deliver visually compelling and scientifically rigorous maps and data resources that support watershed planning and management.
Our work included the creation of 19 thematic maps for the Roe Jansen Watershed and 18 thematic maps for the Sparkill Creek Watershed, designed to illustrate key geographical, natural, and human-made features in a clear and accessible format. These maps were crafted for multiple uses, including presentations, grant proposals, and online platforms, ensuring their versatility for the Alliance and its stakeholders. A comprehensive ESRI geodatabase was developed to organize all spatial data, complete with robust metadata to guarantee usability, accuracy, and compatibility with future projects. By performing extensive quality assurance and integrating advanced datasets such as hydrologic flow networks and watershed land cover, we ensured the highest data reliability for informed decision-making.
A core element of the project was stakeholder engagement. Progress was tracked and informed by regular consultations, allowing us to incorporate feedback and prioritize features that would maximize the maps’ value for the communities served by HRWA. This iterative approach ensured that the final deliverables were not only technically sound but also aligned with the practical needs of end users, such as environmental advocacy groups and citizen scientists.
Overcoming Challenges
One of the most significant challenges of this project was integrating diverse datasets into maps that balance scientific precision with accessibility for a lay audience. The maps needed to serve multiple purposes, from environmental advocacy to stakeholder education, without compromising clarity or depth. Another challenge involved ensuring that the outputs adhered to strict data quality standards, requiring meticulous sourcing, verification, and organization.
Value-Added Innovation
Through this project, we introduced advanced thematic cartography techniques that set a new standard for watershed mapping. Each map was a carefully designed synthesis of data visualization and artistic detail, ensuring both usability and impact. The geodatabase was complemented by detailed metadata, allowing users to interpret and expand upon the data easily. This emphasis on innovation and precision equips HRWA and its stakeholders with the tools necessary for effective watershed stewardship and planning.
The resulting maps and data resources are now integral to the Hudson River Watershed Alliance’s mission, providing the foundation for future watershed characterizations and regional environmental initiatives.
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