Mapping

My Maps

In the past, I've used mapping tools like Google Maps and Earth, but I have never had the opportunity to use  ArcGIS Explorer. Since I'm using a Mac, I was limited to the online format of ArcGIS. But first I'll share my, MyMaps experience.



The layout of MyMaps is pretty simplistic. I marked 3 areas which can be classified Beaked Sedge Fen Communities (BSFC). One frustrating aspect of MyMaps is when an area is created (the darker section) and one is attempting to move around inside the area--when panning, the created section moves not the map. This can be annoying when searching for specific areas within the darkened section.

ArcGIS

Between the ArcGIS and MyMaps, there's really no comparison. The depth of database within ArcGIS is astounding. I'm not a professional cartographer and I'm sure the possibilities with ArcGIS are much wider than I explored but, two baselayers I added to my study area are land cover and intact habitat.

The land cover overlay is provided by the National Land Data Cover Database (NLCD).  As you can see my BSFC have been easily identified and marked with respective pins.  

The legend above, provided by NLCD, helps understand the varying colors on the map.

The second layer is created by  Esri_GI with the aid of NLCD.


The legend is actually found within the ArcGIS program and gives clarity to the varying colors on the map.

Both of these layers along with the BSFC 's I've marked, help provide greater context to my area of study.