Invasive species are those non-native plants, animals and pathogens that survive and spread outside of cultivation and negatively impact biodiversity, human health and the economy. One major challenge to the successful prevention and management of invasive species is the lack of an effective mechanism for sharing and aggregating data between multiple partners. iMapInvasives is a collaborative partnership that provides a venue for the comprehensive exchange of invasive species data using the latest in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and web-based technologies. This project, developed by the Natural Heritage Programs of New York and Florida, and supported by The Nature Conservancy and NatureServe, is designed to serve the needs of many users, from the general public to land managers.
Results/Conclusions
MapInvasives is a collaborative, web-based solution for invasive species data aggregation, mapping, decision-making, and action. Various levels of user-access are available to facilitate data distribution and input. Basic functionality is provided for the general public and includes on-line distribution maps with pan/zoom features and printed reports. Citizen scientists can take on-line training to obtain a log-in which enables them to view point data and enter observation data. Additional functionality is provided for natural resource managers, such as the ability to enter population assessment data and to sign up for early detection e-mail alerts. Early detection options will allow users to choose to receive e-mail alerts when a species has been documented in their region, watershed, or county. Future development will provide data fields to track and assess different types of treatment and post-treatment monitoring. The iMapInvasives Project is a growing network of participating states, with a goal of providing a collaborative tool to help those working to protect their state from the threat of invasive species.
