A decision support system for monitoring and reporting the ecological condition of the Appalachian Trail

Background/Question/Methods

This project is a collaborative effort to improve decision-making and management of the Appalachian National Scenic Trail (A.T.) by providing a framework for data integration, status reporting and trend analysis.

The project integrates NASA multiplatform sensor data, NASA’s Terrestrial Observation and Prediction System (TOPS) models, and in situ measurements from A.T. MEGA-Transect partners to address resource priorities throughout the Appalachian Region.  The system improves upon the traditional decision-making system that relies on coordination between staff working for the Appalachian Trail Park Office, the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, the National Park Service (NPS) Inventory and Monitoring (I&M) program, and the U.S. Forest Service. The objectives are to:

1.        Develop a comprehensive set of seamless indicator data layers consistent with the Appalachian Trail “Vital Signs”;

2.        Establish a ground monitoring system to complement TOPS models;

3.        Assess historical and current ecosystem condition, and forecast potential trends using TOPS and established habitat models;

4.        Develop an Internet-based information dissemination system for data visualization, sharing, and management.

Results/Conclusions

The A.T. MEGA-Transect-DSS is not complete.  However, we fully expect that it will improve resource monitoring, and reporting and forecasting capabilities; will provide managers with data, models and tools designed to detect changes, disturbances and responses within environmental systems; and, will facilitate dissemination of data products to both land managers and the general public. Key features will include:

1.        Geospatially accurate 3-D scenes of the A.T. corridor

2.        A series a pre-selected analytical routines that will give managers the ability to rapidly assess current and future resource condition and trends

3.        Quick access to key information from which educated decisions may be made

4.        Improved situational awareness

5.        Improved conservation and enhancement of species biodiversity

 

The current DSS relies on the NPS to establish management goals and objectives, while the responsibility to execute those management objectives is delegated to partner agencies and organizations.  Under the current framework, geospatial information is used to support management decisions, but little of that information is available to agencies and organizations that perform the desired task.  The new DSS will enable data sharing along the entire management through implementation continuum.