The Pennsylvania Natural Heritage Program (PNHP) is in the process of developing a tool to assist planners at all levels of government. The tool is designed to provide information concerning important ecological resources through a web-based GIS system. The source of this information is a combination of remote-sensed and similar small-scale data used for modeling of predictive information, and ground verified data providing confirmed information. The user will be able to assess the reliability of information provided by having access to these data source categories. In addition, users will be able to access related information regarding the ecological resources in their area and recommended methods for their stewardship. We are seeking input from potential users of this system to help guide system development making it as effective as possible. In addition to this effort, PNHP has recently introduced a revolutionary online project pre-screening tool using ARCIMS. This tool allows the public to submit a point, line, or polygon representing the location of a proposed project and determine if there is a likelihood of adverse impact on known locations of special concern resources. When used early on in site selection and project pre-planning, this tool can lead to enormous savings of both time and money, while reducing adverse environmental impact. An introduction to this tool will also be provided.
Jean is a plant ecologist by training, with a Master’s degree from Connecticut College and an undergraduate degree from Wesleyan University. Jean manages the Pennsylvania Natural Heritage Program. This program, which is a partnership between DCNR, The Nature Conservancy and The Western Pennsylvania Conservancy collects, manages and distributes information regarding special concern ecological resources in the Commonwealth.
Mike is a GIS Analyst who holds a Master’s degree from Shippensburg University in Geoenvironmental Studies. Mike also holds undergraduate degrees in Geography and Forestry. He has over 7 years of consulting experience, including 5 years as a Project Manager. In addition, Mike is an ESRI Authorized Instructor for ArcView and ArcGIS.