Vlatka Varagic

Gis Framework for Nature Refuges Vlatka Varagic

Nature Refuges encompass the second largest extent of protected area estate in Queensland. Major problems exist in the data capture, map presentation, data quality and integrity of these boundaries. The spatial accuracies/inaccuracies of the Nature Refuge administrative boundaries directly influence the ability to preserve valuable ecosystems by challenging negative environmental impacts on these properties. This book is about supporting the Nature Refuge Programs efforts to secure Queensland?s natural and cultural values on private land by utilising GIS and its advanced functionalities. The methodology organizes and enters Queensland?s Nature Refuge boundaries into a spatial environment. Using the concepts of map communication GIS Cartography is utilised for the protected area plan design. The geodatabase model developed adds rich GIS behaviour providing the capability to store, query, and manipulate geographic information. It provides the ability to leverage data relationships and enforces topological integrity creating savings in customization and productivity. The models developed can be easily modified with other negative environmental impacts affecting the Nature Refuges.