Future Plans
Short-term Goals (2008 – 2009):
- To develop an on-line, GIS-based map display and query tool with a common core database structure that can be shared by the different users and agencies participating in this project; and
- To provide a simple, easy-to-use invasive species map display, query, and reporting capability for casual users.
Long-term Goals (2009 – 2011):
The long-term goal of this project is to enhance the initial map display and query tool to be a modular,
fully-functional tool to serve the needs of volunteers and professionals working to manage invasive species. This on-line tool will include capabilities such as:
- Map display
- Database queries
- Report generation (including custom Early Detection Lists)
- Spatial analysis
- On-line data entry with a password
- Data upload from WIMS and other compatible databases
- Digital photo images incorporated in invasive species records
- Automatically-generated Early Detection Email Alerts
- Consult with Weed Management Areas (WMA), Partnerships for Regional Invasive Species Management (PRISMs) and other end-users to ensure that iMapInvasives meets the needs of on-the-ground invasive species managers. In particular, develop tools to assist in Early Detection by Species and Early Detection by Location.
- Seek participation of additional states and/or provinces.
- Consult with other organizations doing invasive species mapping relevant to this project. Develop methods, processes, and procedures as necessary to incorporate and exchange data between this project and other cooperating projects.