| Title: | Using GIS to combine unique data sets and estimate avian species density for an offshore windfarm |
| Authors: | Jeffrey Burm and Erik Danielson |
| Date/Time | Monday, November 5 ~ 1:30 pm - 3:00 pm |
| Abstract: | A major component in the permitting process of the proposed Cape Wind offshore windfarm in Nantucket Sound was to study the potential impacts to avian species. From 2002 through 2004 Cape Wind Associates conducted surveys to determine the spatial and temporal distribution of avian species. Aerial surveys utilizing GPS technology was one of the primary techniques used to gather the data. Similarly, from 2003 to 2006 Massachusetts Audubon conducted their own bird surveys over Nantucket Sound using somewhat different aerial survey methods. Federal agencies reviewing the windfarm project requested that both data sets be consolidated and analyses conducted. Although both data sets were collected over the same timeframe and area, the differing survey methods prevented the data from being combined easily. GIS provided a mechanism by which both data sets could be consolidated and an estimate of species densities could be calculated and mapped. |
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