NatureServe Vista (Vista) is a free ArcGIS extension that was integrated into the project to support analysis in the project, as well as continued “as needed” implementation planning. Vista is a broad tool that could support the following tasks:
- Integrate spatial data
- Define “conservation elements” or those features of conservation assessment and planning interest
- Collect and populate a database of conservation element indicators and requirements such as retention goal, minimum occurrence size, condition threshold, and response (e.g., condition model parameters) of the element to stressors and conservation practices
- Characterize patterns of diversity, value (e.g., imperilment status), and data uncertainty
- Characterize multiple scenarios of stressors and conservation practices and evaluate these for conservation element viability and goal achievement
- Develop individual site or area mitigations and plans
- Interact with Marxan to produce conservation networks, the provide LCD capability to spatially refine the network and specify compatible uses or conservation practices and implementation mechanisms
- Provide support for ongoing plan implementation and adaptive management
Working with NatureServe staff, a Vista project was developed for the ALI priority conservation areas.
