The goal of this lab was to start using the geoprocessing tools that we have learned about, to create data flow models and maps. The goal of the lab was top map out suitable ursus americanus (black bear) habitats in a study area in Marquette County, Michigan, based on certain specifications. The end result of this lab is a map of these bear habitats as well as a data flow model showing how this map could be achieved.
Methods and Procedures
Acquiring the Data
All of the information was made available to use in a folder provided to us. The folder contained bear location Excel files, and the geodatabase needed to complete the project. I copied the folder into my personal folder so that I could use it.
Producing a Feature Class from an Excel File
The bear locations that we were going to used were stored as coordinates in an Excel file. I added the coordinates as an event them, and then exported the data as a feature class that I stored in my Lab4 geodatabase.
Determining top Habitat Types for Bears
I did a spatial join with Bears and Land cover, and then recorded the top three habitat types the bears were found in.
Suitable Habitat based on proximity to streams
To find areas that would be good bear habitats based on proximity to streams I used the buffer tool, set at 500 meters, and then I used the dissolve tool to remove the lines between adjacent polygons.
Suitable Habitat based on stream proximity and Land cover
I created a new layer that contained only the top three habitat types for bears, then I used dissolve to remove lines between adjacent polygons, and intersect to make a new layer where this and the stream buffered layer overlapped.
Find suitable habitat layers within DNR management land
I clipped the DNR management lands to the study area, and then I intersected this with the Stream and Land cover based suitable habitat layer.
Habitat away from Urban or Built up lands
Selected Urban/Built up lands from Land cover, and created a layer out of this, I buffered it by 5 kilometers, and then I erased the habitat that intersected with that.
Results and Reflections
As a result of this Lab, I was able to produce a Map of the suitable habitat areas, as well as a data flow model of how I was able to produce this. I think this Lab was a great way to start thinking about data flow models. While going through the lab, it was possible at points to become overwhelmed by the number of different tools being used and the number of new features that were created. A data flow model allows some of this confusing to be mitigated, and can help increase the effectiveness and thee efficiency of work in GIS.
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| Data Flow Model |
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| Lab 4 Map |
Land cover:
http://www.mcgi.state.mi.us/mgdl/nlcd/metadata/nlcdshp.html
DNR management units:
http://www.dnr.state.mi.us/spatialdatalibrary/metadata/wildlife_mgmt_units.htm
Streams:
http://www.mcgi.state.mi.us/mgdl/framework/metadata/Marquette.html
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