Glacier National Park: Spatial Vegetation Data Metadata

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Biological Informatics Program

Vegetation Characterization Program

Glacier National Park

Spatial Vegetation Data Metadata

Metadata also available as - [Questions & Answers] - [Text] - [Adobe Acrobat pdf file]

Identification_Information:

Citation:

Citation_Information:

Originator:

U.S. Geological Survey, Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center, 2630 Fanta Reed Road, La Crosse, Wisconsin 54603

Publication_Date: 200708

Title:

1999 Glacier National Park Vegetation Map - Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Geospatial_Data_Presentation_Form: vector digital data

Series_Information:

Series_Name: USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program
Issue_Identification:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Publication_Information:

Publication_Place: Denver, Colorado
Publisher: U.S. Geological Survey, Center for Biological Informatics

Other_Citation_Details:

A detailed report on how this data set was created is available to download from the Vegetation Mapping Program's Web site. The report discusses methods and results, and include plant community descriptions and dichotomous keys, map classification and descriptions, and AA contingency tables. It also provides information on the aerial photographs and how they were interpreted. Detailed background information for each map class and attribute code contained in this data set is provided in this report.

Online_Linkage:

<http://biology.usgs.gov/npsveg/glac/index.html>

Larger_Work_Citation:

Citation_Information:

Originator:

U.S. Geological Survey-National Park Service Vegetation Mapping Program

Publication_Date: 2007

Title:

Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Geospatial_Data_Presentation_Form: report

Publication_Information:

Publication_Place: Denver, Colorado
Publisher: U.S. Geological Survey

Other_Citation_Details: none

Description:

Abstract:: The geographic information system (GIS) format spatial data set of vegetation for Glacier National Park (GNP) was created by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS)-National Park Service (NPS) Vegetation Mapping Program (VMP) for the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park (WGIPP). The WGIPP covers an area of approximately 458,556 ha (1,133,116 acres), and includes approximately 30.5 km (19 miles) of the Canada-United States International Boundary. The United States portion of this park (GNP) is located in northwestern Montana, in the Rocky Mountains. The map classification scheme used to create the vegetation data set is designed to represent local plant communities at the finest level possible using the National Vegetation Classification Scheme. Physiognomic information was also recorded, including tree height, canopy density, and coverage patterns. The vegetation data set was developed by interpreting aerial photographs collected in 1999, supplemented with aerial photography collected in 1997-98 and extensive field surveys. Individuals who cooperated in this project include; USGS Center for Biological Informatics, USGS Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center, NPS Glacier National Park, Parks Canada Waterton Lakes National Park, NatureServe, and the Montana Natural Heritage Program. The vegetation data are distributed as a geographic information system (GIS) shapefile data set, using Universal Transverse Mercator zone 12 mapping coordinates, North American Datum 1983.
Purpose:: The USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program (VMP) is a cooperative effort by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and the National Park Service (NPS) to classify, describe, and map existing vegetation of national park units for the Natural Resource Inventory and Monitoring Program. The goals of the WGIPP vegetation mapping project were to (1) adequately describe and map plant communities of WGIPP and (2) provide the NPS Inventory and Monitoring Program, resource managers, and biological researchers with useful baseline vegetation information.
Supplemental_Information:: The WGIPP is located in southwest Alberta, Canada and northwest Montana, United States. The Rocky Mountains and the Continental Divide traverse the WGIPP north to south. The entire WGIPP covers an area of approximately 458,556 ha (1,133,116 acres), and includes approximately 30.5 km (19 miles) of the Canada-United States International Boundary. The WGIPP protects an important mosaic of ecosystems, which include prairies, montane, alpine, and maritime ecosystems. Photointerpreters, ecologists, and botanists from the U.S. and Canada collaborated to describe National Vegetation Classification (NVC) System plant associations (communities) and determine how best to map them using aerial photographs. The team collected 682 vegetation plot samples within the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park (WGIPP) project extent; 628 from the Glacier National Park (GNP) project area, and 54 from the Waterton Lakes National Park (WLNP) project area. Vegetation samples from other existing datasets were utilized, providing over 1,100 sampling plots for the vegetation analysis. Along with vegetation data from accuracy assessment (AA) sites, 226 NVC plant communities were identified in WGIPP (198 from plots, and 28 from AA), plus a few other vegetation types were less defined. Forty-eight map classes were developed to map the vegetation and general landcover of WGIPP, with forty-two of them representing NVC vegetation types. The other six map classes depict general land cover; three representing non-vegetated land cover and three representing developed areas. Two spatial data bases were produced to show locations of vegetation and general landcover; one of GNP and environs and one of WLNP and adjoining Blood Indian Timber Limit. Features were interpreted using high-quality stereoscopes over light tables and 1:15,840-scale true color aerial photographs collected in August 1999. An additional set of aerial photos were used for additional reference, 1:24,000-scale color infrared collected in August 1997. Polygon units were mapped to 0.5 ha (1.25 acres) and, for specific cases, to 0.25 ha (0.62 acres). The interpreted data were computerized and spatially referenced, so they could be accessed using geographic information systems (GIS) computer software. Collectively, the GNP and WLNP spatial data bases provide nearly 109,833 polygons of detailed attribute data covering 494,842.6 ha (1,222,782.8 acres), with an average polygon size of 4.5 ha (11.1 acres). Of the area mapped, 102,124 polygons (93%) represent NVC vegetation types, encompassing 469,190 ha (1,159,394.3 acres; 94.8%) of the total map extent. The GNP lands account for 82.5% of the entire map extent, with an additional 7.1% for environs around GNP, making up 89.6% of the combined WGIPP project boundary extent. The WLNP lands account for about 10% of the map extent, with the BITL about 0.4%; the WLNP spatial data base makes up 10.4% of the full boundary extent. The GIS format data set has been projected to Universal Transverse Mercator zone 12 mapping coordinates, using the North American Datum of 1983.

Time_Period_of_Content:

Time_Period_Information:

Range_of_Dates/Times:

Beginning_Date: 19990818
Ending_Date: 19990822

Currentness_Reference: ground condition

Status:

Progress: Complete
Maintenance_and_Update_Frequency: As needed

Spatial_Domain:

Description_of_Geographic_Extent: Glacier National Park and environs

Bounding_Coordinates:

West_Bounding_Coordinate: -114.501706
East_Bounding_Coordinate: -113.212423
North_Bounding_Coordinate: 49.033057
South_Bounding_Coordinate: 48.202507

Keywords:

Theme:

Theme_Keyword_Thesaurus: none
Theme_Keyword: National Park
Theme_Keyword: USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program
Theme_Keyword: National Park Service
Theme_Keyword: Glacier National Park
Theme_Keyword: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park
Theme_Keyword: Vegetation Map
Theme_Keyword: Land Cover
Theme_Keyword: Land Use
Theme_Keyword: Photointerpretation
Theme_Keyword: Photo Interpretation
Theme_Keyword: Vegetation Mapping
Theme_Keyword: National Vegetation Classification Standard
Theme_Keyword: National Vegetation Classification System
Theme_Keyword: NVCS
Theme_Keyword: U.S. National Vegetation Classification
Theme_Keyword: USNVC
Theme_Keyword: International Vegetation Classification
Theme_Keyword: Mountain
Theme_Keyword: Glacier
Theme_Keyword: Alpine

Place:

Place_Keyword_Thesaurus: None
Place_Keyword: Glacier National Park
Place_Keyword: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park
Place_Keyword: United States
Place_Keyword: Montana
Place_Keyword: Flathead County
Place_Keyword: Glacier County

Taxonomy:

Keywords/Taxon:

Taxonomic_Keyword_Thesaurus: none
Taxonomic_Keywords: Standardized National Vegetation Classification System
Taxonomic_Keywords: vegetation classification
Taxonomic_Keywords: alliance
Taxonomic_Keywords: community association

Taxonomic_Classification:

Taxon_Rank_Name: Kingdom
Taxon_Rank_Value: Plantae

Access_Constraints: none

Use_Constraints: none

Point_of_Contact:

Contact_Information:

Contact_Organization_Primary:

Contact_Organization: USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program
Contact_Person: USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program Coordinator

Contact_Position: USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program Coordinator

Contact_Address:

Address_Type: mailing and physical address
Address:: U.S. Geological Survey, Center for Biological Informatics, MS 302, Room 8000, Building 810, Denver Federal Center
City: Denver
State_or_Province: CO
Postal_Code: 80225
Country: USA

Contact_Voice_Telephone: (303) 202-4220

Contact_Voice_Telephone: 608-781-6370

Contact_Facsimile_Telephone: (303) 202-4219

Contact_Electronic_Mail_Address: gs-b-npsveg@usgs.gov

Native_Data_Set_Environment:

Microsoft Windows XP Version 5.1 (Build 2600) Service Pack 2; ESRI ArcCatalog 9.2.2.1350

Data_Quality_Information:

Attribute_Accuracy:

Attribute_Accuracy_Report:: The USGS-NPS vegetation mapping program has established an attribute accuracy level of 80% for the program. The Glacier National Park vegetation map has an overall attribute accuracy of 87.9% (Kappa index of 87.4%); calculated using information collected at 918 attribute accuracy sampling sites.

Logical_Consistency_Report:

All polygon features were checked for potential topology and attribute errors using the software program ArcInfo Workstation (versions 8.02, 9.0, 9.1, and 9.2). Topology checks were performed to make sure each polygon was closed, no dangling features were present, each polygon contained a labeling point, and to make sure that no duplicate lines, polygons, or labels were present.

Completeness_Report:

All features identified by the photointerpreters were automated. Information stored in the map codes used by the photointerpreters (e.g., vegetation community, tree height, vegetation cover, ...) are stored in the data set's attribute table. The map codes are cross-referenced within the database attribute table to the National Vegetation Classification Scheme, at all physiognomic and floristic levels. A minimum mapping unit of 0.5 ha (1.25 acre) was used for this project, with a 0.25 ha (0.62 acre) used in select areas.

Positional_Accuracy:

Horizontal_Positional_Accuracy:

Horizontal_Positional_Accuracy_Report:: The photointerpreted data were georeferenced and orthorectified using the software program Orthomapper, 3.75-minute USGS digital orthophoto quadrangles, and 1- and 1/3-degree national elevation data sets. The reference orthophotos have a horizontal root mean square error (RMSE) of no greater than 7.0 meters. Field control for the orthophoto's reference images were acquired by third order class 1 or better survey methods, sufficiently spaced to meet National Map Accuracy Standards (NMAS) for 1:12,000-scale products.

Vertical_Positional_Accuracy:

Vertical_Positional_Accuracy_Report:: No elevation information is stored in this data set. Instead, elevation data was used during the orthorectification process minimize or eliminates distortions caused by changes in elevation.

Lineage:

Source_Information:

Source_Citation:

Citation_Information:

Originator:

U.S. Geological Survey-National Park Service Vegetation Mapping Program

Publication_Date: 199908

Title: 1999 True Color Aerial Photos - Glacier National Park

Geospatial_Data_Presentation_Form: true color positive transparency

Series_Information:

Series_Name:: U.S. Geological Survey-National Park Service Vegetation Mapping Program
Issue_Identification:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Publication_Information:

Publication_Place: Denver, Colorado
Publisher: U.S. Geological Survey

Other_Citation_Details:

In August 1999, Glacier National Park was photographed using true color positive transparency film, at a scale of 1:15,840. A total of 1,618 photographs were collected, using a Zeiss RMK TOP 15 camera. The contractor used to collect the photos was HJW & Associates, located in Irvine, California.

Source_Scale_Denominator: 15840

Type_of_Source_Media: true color positive transparency

Source_Time_Period_of_Content:

Time_Period_Information:

Range_of_Dates/Times:

Beginning_Date: 19990818
Ending_Date: 19990822

Source_Currentness_Reference: ground condition

Source_Citation_Abbreviation: 1999 Aerial Photos

Source_Contribution:

The 1999 aerial photos were used by the photointerpreters to identify land cover features. Photointerpretation was performed on this set of photos.

Source_Information:

Source_Citation:

Citation_Information:

Originator:

U.S. Geological Survey-National Park Service Vegetation Mapping Program

Publication_Date: 199708

Title: 1997 Color Infrared Aerial Photos - Glacier National Park

Geospatial_Data_Presentation_Form: color infrared photo transparency

Series_Information:

Series_Name:: U.S. Geological Survey-National Park Service Vegetation Mapping Program
Issue_Identification:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Publication_Information:

Publication_Place: Denver, Colorado
Publisher: U.S. Geological Survey

Other_Citation_Details:

In August 1997, Glacier National Park was photographed using color infrared positive transparency film, at a scale of 1:24,000. A total of 892 photographs were collected, using a Zeiss RMK TOP 15 camera. The contractor used to collect the photos was HJW & Associates, located in Irvine, California.

Source_Scale_Denominator: 24000

Type_of_Source_Media: color infrared positive transparency

Source_Time_Period_of_Content:

Time_Period_Information:

Range_of_Dates/Times:

Beginning_Date: 19970803
Ending_Date: 19970812

Source_Currentness_Reference: ground condition

Source_Citation_Abbreviation: 1997 Aerial Photos - GNP

Source_Contribution:

The photointerpreters used this set of photos as a source of supplemental information.

Source_Information:

Source_Citation:

Citation_Information:

Originator:

U.S. Geological Survey-National Park Service Vegetation Mapping Program

Publication_Date: 199708

Title: 1997 Color Infrared Aerial Photos - Select Glaciers and Lakes

Geospatial_Data_Presentation_Form: color infrared photo transparency

Series_Information:

Series_Name:: U.S. Geological Survey-National Park Service Vegetation Mapping Program
Issue_Identification:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Publication_Information:

Publication_Place: Denver, Colorado
Publisher: U.S. Geological Survey

Other_Citation_Details:

In August 1997, select glaciers and lakes located in Glacier National Park were photographed using color infrared positive transparency film, at a scale of 1:12,000. A total of 418 photographs were collected, using a Zeiss RMK TOP 15 camera. The contractor used to collect the photos was HJW & Associates, located in Irvine, California.

Source_Scale_Denominator: 12000

Type_of_Source_Media: color infrared positive transparency

Source_Time_Period_of_Content:

Time_Period_Information:

Range_of_Dates/Times:

Beginning_Date: 19970803
Ending_Date: 19970810

Source_Currentness_Reference: ground condition

Source_Citation_Abbreviation: 1997 Aerial Photos - Lakes & Glaciers

Source_Contribution:

The photointerpreters used this set of photos as a source of supplemental information.

Source_Information:

Source_Citation:

Citation_Information:

Originator:

U.S. Geological Survey-National Park Service Vegetation Mapping Program

Publication_Date: 199808

Title: 1998 Color Infrared Aerial Photos - Glacier National Park

Geospatial_Data_Presentation_Form: color infrared photo transparency

Series_Information:

Series_Name:: U.S. Geological Survey-National Park Service Vegetation Mapping Program
Issue_Identification:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Publication_Information:

Publication_Place: Denver, Colorado
Publisher: U.S. Geological Survey

Other_Citation_Details:

In August 1998, select areas in Glacier National Park were photographed, to fill in several data gaps noticed in the 1997 aerial photos. A total of 87 photographs were collected, using a Zeiss RMK TOP 15 camera. The contractor used to collect the photos was HJW & Associates, located in Irvine, California.

Source_Scale_Denominator: 24000

Type_of_Source_Media: color infrared positive transparency

Source_Time_Period_of_Content:

Time_Period_Information:

Single_Date/Time:

Calendar_Date: 19980803

Source_Currentness_Reference: publication date

Source_Citation_Abbreviation: 1998 Aerial Photos - GNP

Source_Contribution:

The photointerpreters used this set of photos as a source of supplemental information.

Source_Information:

Source_Citation:

Citation_Information:

Originator:

U.S. Geological Survey-National Park Service Vegetation Mapping Program

Publication_Date: 199808

Title: 1998 Color Infrared Aerial Photos - Select Glaciers and Lakes

Geospatial_Data_Presentation_Form: color infrared photo transparency

Series_Information:

Series_Name:: U.S. Geological Survey-National Park Service Vegetation Mapping Program
Issue_Identification:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Publication_Information:

Publication_Place: Denver, Colorado
Publisher: U.S. Geological Survey

Other_Citation_Details:

Source_Scale_Denominator: 12000

Type_of_Source_Media: color infrared positive transparency

Source_Time_Period_of_Content:

Time_Period_Information:

Single_Date/Time:

Calendar_Date: 1998

Source_Currentness_Reference: ground condition

Source_Citation_Abbreviation: 1998 Aerial Photos - Lakes & Glaciers

Source_Contribution:

The photointerpreters used this set of photos as a source of supplemental information.

Source_Information:

Source_Citation:

Citation_Information:

Originator: USGS - National Mapping Division

Originator: U.S. Geological Survey

Publication_Date: Unknown

Title: Digital Orthophoto Quadrangles

Geospatial_Data_Presentation_Form: digital database file

Publication_Information:

Publication_Place: Sioux Falls, MN
Publisher: EROS Data Center

Other_Citation_Details:

A digital orthophoto is a digital image of an aerial photograph in which displacements caused by the camera and the terrain have been removed. It combines the image characteristics of a photograph with the geometric qualities of a map. The standard digital orhthophoto produced by the USGS is a black-and-white, or color infrared, 1-meter ground resolution quarter quadrangle image. The accuracy and quality of USGS digital orthophotos must meet National Map Accuracy Standards at 1:12,000 scale for 3.75-minute quadrangles and at 1:24,000-scale for 7.5-minute quadrangles.

Online_Linkage: <http://nsdi.usgs.gov/products/doq.html>

Source_Scale_Denominator: 12000

Type_of_Source_Media: Digital data base file

Source_Time_Period_of_Content:

Time_Period_Information:

Single_Date/Time:

Calendar_Date: unknown

Source_Currentness_Reference: ground condition

Source_Citation_Abbreviation: USGS DOQ

Source_Contribution:

This data set was used during the orthorectification process of the interpreted photo overlays. The digital orthophoto quadrangles (DOQs) are used by the software program Orthomapper as an existing data set that has already been orthorectified (i.e., georeferenced, and elevation distortions have been removed). The photo overlays are aligned with the DOQs, then the software program uses data stored in the DOQ images along with available elevation data to georeference and remove elevation distortions from the photo overlays (i.e., orthorectify).

Source_Information:

Source_Citation:

Citation_Information:

Originator: U.S. Geological Survey

Originator: Eros Data Center

Publication_Date: Unknown

Title: National Elevation Data (NED) - 1/3 Arc Second Data

Geospatial_Data_Presentation_Form: Digital database file

Publication_Information:

Publication_Place: Sioux Falls, SD
Publisher: U.S. Geological Survey

Other_Citation_Details:

The National Elevation Dataset (NED) 1/3 Arc Second is a raster product assembled by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). NED 1/3 Arc Second is designed to provide National elevation data in a seamless form with a consistent datum, elevation unit, and projection. Data corrections are made in the NED 1/3 Arc Second assembly process to minimize, but not eliminate, artifacts, perform edge matching, and fill sliver areas of missing data. NED 1/3 Arc Second has a resolution of 1/3 arc-second (approximately 10 meters) for the conterminous United States.

Online_Linkage: <http://gisdata.usgs.net/website/seamless/>

Type_of_Source_Media: Digital database file

Source_Time_Period_of_Content:

Time_Period_Information:

Single_Date/Time:

Calendar_Date: unknown

Source_Currentness_Reference: ground condition

Source_Citation_Abbreviation: 1/3 NED Data

Source_Contribution: Provided elevation data for the study area.

Source_Information:

Source_Citation:

Citation_Information:

Originator: U.S. Geological Survey

Originator: EROS Data Center

Publication_Date: Unknown

Title: National Elevation Data (NED) - 1 Arc Second Data

Geospatial_Data_Presentation_Form: digital database file

Publication_Information:

Publication_Place: Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Publisher: EROS Data Center

Other_Citation_Details:

The National Elevation Dataset (NED) 1 Arc Second is a raster product assembled by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). NED is designed to provide National elevation data in a seamless form with a consistent datum, elevation unit, and projection. Data corrections are made in the NED assembly process to minimize, but not eliminate, artifacts, perform edge matching, and fill sliver areas of missing data. NED has a resolution of one arc-second (approximately 30 meters) for the conterminous United States.

Online_Linkage: <http://gisdata.usgs.net/website/seamless/>

Type_of_Source_Media: Digital database file

Source_Time_Period_of_Content:

Time_Period_Information:

Single_Date/Time:

Calendar_Date: unknown

Source_Currentness_Reference: ground condition

Source_Citation_Abbreviation: 1 NED Data

Source_Contribution: Provided elevation data for the study area.

Source_Information:

Source_Citation:

Citation_Information:

Originator:

Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Originator: U.S. Geological Survey, Center for Biological Informatics

Originator:

U.S. Geological Survey, Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center

Originator: National Park Service, Glacier National Park

Originator: Parks Canada, Waterton Lakes National Park

Originator: NatureServe

Originator: Montana Natural Heritage Program

Publication_Date: 2007

Title: Final Vegetation Classification of Waterton-Glacier IPP

Geospatial_Data_Presentation_Form: database

Publication_Information:

Publication_Place: Denver, Colorado
Publisher: U.S. Geological Survey

Other_Citation_Details:

Map classification developed specifically for the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project. Includes crosswalk to the National Vegetation Classification System floristic and physiognomic levels (names and codes), NatureServe Ecological Systems, and U.S. Geological Survey Land Use and Land Cover Classification System (Level 2). The final report for this mapping project contains a detailed listing of this classification scheme, in Appendix I, Final Vegetation Classification of Waterton-Glacier IPP.

Online_Linkage: <http://biology.usgs.gov/npsveg/glac/index.html>

Type_of_Source_Media: database

Source_Time_Period_of_Content:

Time_Period_Information:

Single_Date/Time:

Calendar_Date: 2007

Source_Currentness_Reference: publication date

Source_Citation_Abbreviation: WGIPP Vegetation Classification

Source_Contribution:

Map classification defining polygon data (vegetation and general land cover).

Source_Information:

Source_Citation:

Citation_Information:

Originator:

National Spatial Data Infrastructure, Federal Geographic Data Committee, Vegetation Subcommittee

Publication_Date: 199706

Title: National Vegetation Classification Standard (1997)

Geospatial_Data_Presentation_Form: online document

Series_Information:

Series_Name: Standards
Issue_Identification: Vegetation Classification and Information Standards

Publication_Information:

Publication_Place: Reston, Virginia
Publisher: Federal Geographic Data Committee

Other_Citation_Details:

Federal Geographic Data Committee. 1997. Vegetation classification standard, FGDC-STD-005.

Online_Linkage:

<http://www.fgdc.gov/participation/working-groups-subcommittees/vsc/index_html>

Type_of_Source_Media: document

Source_Time_Period_of_Content:

Time_Period_Information:

Single_Date/Time:

Calendar_Date: 199706

Source_Currentness_Reference: publication date

Source_Citation_Abbreviation: NVCS Physiognomic Classes (FGDC 1997)

Source_Contribution:

Standard vegetation classification system (physiognomic levels) used for classification structure.

Process_Step:

Process_Description:: Introduction: Mapping vegetation of Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park (IPP) and environs involved four primary steps; (1) field reconnaissance, (2) map classification, (3) photointerpretation, and (4) digital map automation and database development. Although these steps occurred sequentially, they overlap to some degree.
Process_Date: 1997 through 2006

Process_Step:

Process_Description:: Field Reconnaissance: The Park was mapped in sections. Before photointerpretation was initiated, photo interpreters would visit each section to perform field reconnaissance. At this time, field trips were performed to a variety of locations within the section that was scheduled to be mapped. Printed copies of the aerial photos that would be used during the photointerpretation process were brought along, so conditions on the ground could be compared to images contained in the photos. These trips helped the photointerpreters determine which plant types could be identified within the aerial photos.
Source_Used_Citation_Abbreviation: 1999 Aerial Photos
Source_Used_Citation_Abbreviation: 1997 Aerial Photos - GNP
Source_Used_Citation_Abbreviation: 1997 Aerial Photos - Lakes & Glaciers
Source_Used_Citation_Abbreviation: 1998 Aerial Photos - GNP
Source_Used_Citation_Abbreviation: 1998 Aerial Photos - Lakes & Glaciers
Source_Used_Citation_Abbreviation: WGIPP Vegetation Classification
Source_Used_Citation_Abbreviation: NVCS Physiognomic Classes (FGDC 1997)
Process_Date: 1997 through 2006

Process_Step:

Process_Description:: Map Classification: The ultimate goal of the map classification was to represent the plant communities of Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park as defined by the individuals who performed the vegetation classification project. The photointerpreters cooperated with the vegetation specialists to determine which vegetation types and communities could be accurately identified using the aerial photography. Some of the classes appearing in the final vegetation map might be comprised of a single vegetation type as identified by the vegetation classifiers, others may contain one of several different types. Not all vegetation types/communities visible on the ground are identifiable in an aerial photograph.
Source_Used_Citation_Abbreviation: 1999 Aerial Photos
Source_Used_Citation_Abbreviation: 1997 Aerial Photos - GNP
Source_Used_Citation_Abbreviation: 1997 Aerial Photos - Lakes & Glaciers
Source_Used_Citation_Abbreviation: 1998 Aerial Photos - GNP
Source_Used_Citation_Abbreviation: 1998 Aerial Photos - Lakes & Glaciers
Source_Used_Citation_Abbreviation: WGIPP Vegetation Classification
Source_Used_Citation_Abbreviation: NVCS Physiognomic Classes (FGDC 1997)
Process_Date: 1997 - 2006

Process_Step:

Process_Description:: Photointerpretation: Photointerpretation was performed using Richards MIM light tables and Bausch & Lomb Zoom 240 stereoscopes with variable zoom capabilities. Photointerpretation was performed on the 1999 true color positive photo transparencies, using acetate overlays, Rapidograph ink pens (6x0-size, 0.13 mm) and Rapidraw black India ink (3084; waterproof, fast drying for film). During this process the 1997 and 1998 color infrared aerial photography was used as a reference source, to assist with the identification of various land cover types. Detailed information on how the photointerpretation processes were performed is available in the project's final report.
Source_Used_Citation_Abbreviation: 1999 Aerial Photos
Source_Used_Citation_Abbreviation: 1997 Aerial Photos - GNP
Source_Used_Citation_Abbreviation: 1997 Aerial Photos - Lakes & Glaciers
Source_Used_Citation_Abbreviation: 1998 Aerial Photos - GNP
Source_Used_Citation_Abbreviation: 1998 Aerial Photos - Lakes & Glaciers
Source_Used_Citation_Abbreviation: WGIPP Vegetation Classification
Source_Used_Citation_Abbreviation: NVCS Physiognomic Classes (FGDC 1997)
Process_Date: 1998 through 2006

Process_Step:

Process_Description:: Orthorectification: The photo overlays and contact prints of the 1999 photography were scanned at 400 dots per inch (dpi) and orthorectified. This was accomplished using the software program Orthomapper. Visible features in the aerial photos (e.g., individual rocks, bushes, trees) were used to align the aerial photos to digital orthophoto quadrangles (DOQ). The software then used these data and the region's elevation data to orthorectify the photos. Data used to orthorectify the photos were then applied to scanned images of the photo overlays, to orthorectify them as well. Once several photos in the same area were orthorectified, the software was used to mosaic the overlays and create a single orthorectified image file.
Source_Used_Citation_Abbreviation: GNP Photo Overlays
Source_Used_Citation_Abbreviation: 1 NED Data
Source_Used_Citation_Abbreviation: 1/3 NED Data
Source_Used_Citation_Abbreviation: USGS DOQ
Process_Date: 1998 through 2006

Process_Step:

Process_Description:: Conversion to GIS format files: The software program ArcInfo Workstation was then used to convert the orthorectified overlays into a GIS format data. The software program's ArcScan processing module was used to convert the raster images into vector data. The modules ArcTools and ArcEdit were used to check the vector data for potential errors and associate the photo interpreter's map classification codes with vector data. During this process numerous accuracy checks were performed on the data.
Process_Date: 1998 through 2006

Process_Step:

Process_Description:

Accuracy Assessment: An in-depth accuracy project was performed on the geographic information system (GIS) format land cover data set. This was done to measure the probability of map accuracy (or, the absence of error). A series of computer selected random sampling sites were chosen for each map class in the data set. The mapping coordinates of these sites were then provided to field crews, who used global positioning system (GPS) receivers to locate each site. The land cover at each of these sites was compared to data developed by the photo interpreters, to determine the thematic accuracy of the data set. Detailed information on how this assessment was performed and its results are available in the project report. The overall attribute accuracy of the Glacier National Park vegetation map is 87.9% (Kappa index of 87.4%).

Process_Date: 2005 - 2007

Process_Contact:

Contact_Information:

Contact_Organization_Primary:

Contact_Organization:: U.S. Geological Survey, Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center

Contact_Position: Coordinator - National Park Mapping Program

Contact_Address:

Address_Type: mailing and physical address
Address: 2630 Fanta Reed Road
City: La Crosse
State_or_Province: Wisconsin
Postal_Code: 54603-1223
Country: United States of America

Contact_Voice_Telephone: (608) 783-6451

Contact_Facsimile_Telephone: (608) 783-8058

Hours_of_Service: 7:30 AM - 4:00 PM, M-F

Contact_Instructions:

Ask receptionist to connect you with the national park mapping coordinator.

Spatial_Data_Organization_Information:

Direct_Spatial_Reference_Method: Vector

Point_and_Vector_Object_Information:

SDTS_Terms_Description:

SDTS_Point_and_Vector_Object_Type: G-polygon
Point_and_Vector_Object_Count: 98675

Spatial_Reference_Information:

Horizontal_Coordinate_System_Definition:

Planar:

Grid_Coordinate_System:

Grid_Coordinate_System_Name: Universal Transverse Mercator

Universal_Transverse_Mercator:

UTM_Zone_Number: 12

Transverse_Mercator:

Scale_Factor_at_Central_Meridian: 0.999600
Longitude_of_Central_Meridian: -111.000000
Latitude_of_Projection_Origin: 0.000000
False_Easting: 500000.000000
False_Northing: 0.000000

Planar_Coordinate_Information:

Planar_Coordinate_Encoding_Method: coordinate pair

Coordinate_Representation:

Abscissa_Resolution: 0.000001
Ordinate_Resolution: 0.000001

Planar_Distance_Units: meters

Geodetic_Model:

Horizontal_Datum_Name: North American Datum of 1983
Ellipsoid_Name: Geodetic Reference System 80
Semi-major_Axis: 6378137.000000
Denominator_of_Flattening_Ratio: 298.257222

Entity_and_Attribute_Information:

Detailed_Description:

Entity_Type:

Entity_Type_Label: GLAC_VegMap
Entity_Type_Definition:: Attribute information for the vegetation map of Glacier National Park
Entity_Type_Definition_Source:: The attribute table is used to store information collected by the photo interpreters working on the vegetation mapping project. Included in this table are the photo interpreter's map classification codes, along with background information on what those codes are describing.

Attribute:

Attribute_Label: FID

Attribute_Definition:

Internal feature number. These numbers are automatically generated by the software program ArcInfo Workstation, and are used by the software to track individual polygon features stored in shapefiles. Most software program will not display these numbers when the data set's attribute table is displayed.

Attribute_Definition_Source: ESRI

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Unrepresentable_Domain:: Sequential unique whole numbers that are automatically generated.

Attribute:

Attribute_Label: Shape

Attribute_Definition: Feature geometry.

Attribute_Definition_Source: ESRI

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Unrepresentable_Domain: Coordinates defining the features (i.e., polygons).

Attribute:

Attribute_Label: OBJECTID

Attribute_Definition:

These numbers are also automatically generated by the software program ArcInfo Workstation, and are used by the software to track individual polygon features stored as coverages (files used with ArcInfo Workstation).

Attribute_Definition_Source: ArcInfo Workstation

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Unrepresentable_Domain: Numbers identifying features (i.e., polygons).

Attribute:

Attribute_Label: AREA

Attribute_Definition: Area of an individual polygon, represented in square meters.

Attribute_Definition_Source: ArcInfo Workstation

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Unrepresentable_Domain:: Positive real numbers that were automatically generated by the software program ArcInfo Workstation.

Attribute:

Attribute_Label: PERIMETER

Attribute_Definition:

Length of the line used to define the outer boundary of an individual polygon. Perimeter measurements are expressed in meters.

Attribute_Definition_Source: ArcInfo Workstation

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Unrepresentable_Domain:: Positive real numbers that were automatically generated by the software program ArcInfo Workstation.

Attribute:

Attribute_Label: MAP_ATT

Attribute_Definition:

The Map_att field contains the map codes that were written onto the photo overlays created by the photointerpreters. Each code contains background information on the map class and any physiognomic identifiers (when present) associated with the polygon. A total of 847 different map_att codes are contained in this data set. As result, a complete listing of each map_att code and its definition has not been developed.

Attribute_Definition_Source:

Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Unrepresentable_Domain: The photo interpreter's classification and modifier codes.

Attribute:

Attribute_Label: Acres

Attribute_Definition:

Number of acres located in each polygon. These numbers were calculated using information stored in the Area field.

Attribute_Definition_Source:

Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Unrepresentable_Domain: Area of each polygon, expressed as acres.

Attribute:

Attribute_Label: Hectares

Attribute_Definition:

Number of hectares located in each polygon. These numbers were calculated using information stored in the Area field.

Attribute_Definition_Source:

Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Unrepresentable_Domain: Area of each polygon, expressed as hectares.

Attribute:

Attribute_Label: MAP_CLASS

Attribute_Definition:

The three character code used to identify each map classification (i.e., land cover) type. The definitions provided in this data set are the one contained in the attribute field Map_desc. A more detailed listing of these codes and their descriptions are available in the project's report, Table 16. This table not only lists the 3-character code and its description, but also includes subdivision information that groups similar codes by their classification subclasses, formations, and groupings.

Attribute_Definition_Source:

Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: CSA
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: Dwarf-shrub/Herbaceous Complex: Dry - Mesic
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: CSW
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: Dwarf-shrub/Herbaceous Complex: Mesic - Wet
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: DWD
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: White Dryad Dwarf-shrubland
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: FAP
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: Poplar - Birch Forest
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: FCH
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: Cedar - Hemlock Forest (mesic phase)
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: FCR
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: Mixed Conifer Regenerate Forest
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: FCS
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: Cedar - Hemlock Forest (wet phase)
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: FCW
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: Black Cottonwood Forest
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: FDF
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: Douglas-fir Forest
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: FEP
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: Mixed Conifer - Deciduous Forest
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: FFS
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: Subalpine Fir - Engelmann Spruce Forest
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: FLP
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: Lodgepole Pine Forest
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: FPW
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: Lodgepole Pine Wet Forest
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: FSP
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: Engelmann Spruce Forest
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: FSW
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: Engelmann Spruce - Wet Shrub Forest
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: FWL
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: Western Larch Forest
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: FWM
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: Mixed Conifer - Deciduous Wet Forest
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: HES
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: Exposed Shoreline Herbaceous: Pioneering Vegetation
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: HGL
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: Grassland Herbaceous
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: HPF
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: Permanently Flooded Herbaceous
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: HSF
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: Semi-permanently Flooded Herbaceous
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: HSS
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: Sagebrush - Fescue Shrub Herbaceous
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: HWM
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: Wet Meadow Herbaceous
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: NGS
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: Glacier/Snowfield
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: NLP
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: Natural/Artificial Lake/Pond
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: NQR
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: Quarry
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: NRC
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: Residential/Commercial Area
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: NRR
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: Road/Railroad
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: NST
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: Stream/River
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: SAD
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: Deciduous Shrubland: Avalanche/Snow Burial
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: SAM
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: Mixed Conifer - Deciduous Shrubland: Avalanche/Snow Burial
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: SDS
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: Deciduous Shrubland: Dry - Mesic
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: SFK
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: Krummholz Shrubland
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: SMR
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: Mixed Regenerate Shrubland
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: SWL
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: Deciduous Wet Shrubland
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: VBA
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: Burned Vegetation: Bare Soil
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: VCT
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: Cliff/Talus Sparse Vegetation
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: VEE
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: Exposed Shoreline Sparse Vegetation (eroded embankment phase)
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: VSL
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: Exposed Shoreline Sparse Vegetation (wet riparian/basin phase)
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: WDF
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: Douglas-fir Woodland
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: WFS
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: Subalpine Fir - Engelmann Spruce Woodland
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: WLM
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: Limber Pine Woodland
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: WLP
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: Lodgepole Pine Woodland
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: WPP
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: Ponderosa Pine Woodland
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: WSL
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: Subalpine Larch Woodland
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: WWB
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: Whitebark Pine Woodland
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: XHC
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: Hayfield/Cropland
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute:

Attribute_Label: MAP_DESC

Attribute_Definition:

Full map class name, the Base and Phase name listed together. A listing of the individual map classes has already been provided, underneath the heading of Map_class.

Attribute_Definition_Source:

Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Unrepresentable_Domain:: Full Description of Map Class Vegetation Types (See Map Class Value Definition)

Attribute:

Attribute_Label: MAP_BDESC

Attribute_Definition:

The base map class name, without phase classes. These names were previously listed underneath the heading of Map_class. The base names are written underneath the headings of Attribute_Definition: If a phase class name is present, it appears after the class name surrounded by parenthesis. Only 4 entries have phase names associated with them.

Attribute_Definition_Source:

Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Unrepresentable_Domain: Base Map Names

Attribute:

Attribute_Label: MAP_PDESC

Attribute_Definition:

Phase Map Class name. Only two of the map classes have phase names associated with them. The Cedar - Hemlock Forest has both a mesic and wet phase, Exposed Shoreline Sparse Vegetation has both an eroded embankment and a wet riparian/basin phase.

Attribute_Definition_Source:

Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Unrepresentable_Domain: Phase Names

Attribute:

Attribute_Label: DENS_MOD

Attribute_Definition:

The coverage density modifier is an estimation of the percentage of area covered by a given map class, within a given polygon.

Attribute_Definition_Source:

Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: 1 - Closed Canopy/Continuous (60-100% coverage)
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: When the photointerpreters included a density modifier of 1 in a polygon's Map_att code, this signified that 60% to 100% of that polygon was covered with the identified map class.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: 2 - Open Canopy/Discontinuous (25-60% coverage)
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: When the photointerpreters included a density modifier of 2 in a polygon's Map_att code, this signified that 25% to 60% of that polygon was covered with the identified map class.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: 3 - Dispersed/Sparse Canopy (10-25% coverage)
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: When the photointerpreters included a density modifier of 3 in a polygon's Map_att code, this signified that only 10% to 25% of that polygon was covered with the identified map class.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute:

Attribute_Label: PTRN_MOD

Attribute_Definition:

The pattern modifiers are used to describe how the vegetation associated with that particular map class is growing within each polygon. Are any particular growth patterns noticeable? Is the vegetation clumped? Is it evenly distributed?

Attribute_Definition_Source:

Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: A - Evenly Dispersed
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: When the photointerpreters included a pattern modifier of A, this meant that vegetation associated with that particular map class appeared evenly distributed within the polygon.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: B - Clumped/Bunched
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: When the photointerpreters included a pattern modifier of B, this meant that vegetation associated with that particular map class appeared in bunches or clumps within the polygon.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: C - Gradational/Transitional
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: When the photointerpreters included a pattern modifier of C, this meant that vegetation associated with that particular map class appeared to follow a gradational or transitional pattern in that polygon. Examples of when this might occur is if a shrubland has been identified in an avalanche/snow burial zone, or the density of plant growth decreases as elevation increases.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: D - Regularly Alternating
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: When the photointerpreters included a pattern modifier of D, this meant that vegetation regularly alternated between two or more land cover types within a single polygon.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: N/A
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: Used as a place holder in this field, when no pattern modifiers were recorded.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute:

Attribute_Label: HT_MOD

Attribute_Definition:

An estimation of the average height of the vegetation associated with the map class, within that polygon.

Attribute_Definition_Source:

Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: 1 - 30-50 meters (98-162 ft)
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: When the photointerpreters recorded a height modifier of 1, this meant the vegetation associated with that particular map class averaged approximately 30 to 50 meters in height.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: 2 - 15-30 meters (50-98 feet)
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: When the photointerpreters recorded a height modifier of 2, this meant the vegetation associated with that particular map class averaged approximately 15 to 30 meters in height.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: 3 - 5-15 meters (16-50 feet)
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: When the photointerpreters recorded a height modifier of 3, this meant the vegetation associated with that particular map class averaged approximately 5 to 15 meters in height.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: 4 - 0.5-5 meters (1.5-16 feet)
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: When the photointerpreters recorded a height modifier of 4, this meant the vegetation associated with that particular map class averaged approximately 0.5 to 5 meters in height.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: 5 - <2 meters
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: When the photointerpreters recorded a height modifier of 5, this meant the vegetation associated with that particular map class averaged less than 2 meters in height.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: 6 - 0.5 meters (< 1.5 feet)
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: When the photointerpreters recorded a height modifier of 5, this meant the vegetation associated with that particular map class averaged a half a meter (0.5m) in height.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: N/A
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: Used as a place holder in this field, when no height modifiers were recorded.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute:

Attribute_Label: XYZ_MOD

Attribute_Definition:

The park's whitebark (Pinus albicaulis) and limber pine (P. flexilis) trees have been affected by the disease white pine blister rust. To help identify the status of these trees (alive or dead), the xyz modifiers have been created.

Attribute_Definition_Source:

Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: N/A
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: Polygons that have an N/A value assigned to them did not have a xyz_mod attribute recorded in their map_att code.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value:: X - Dead (significant dead trees of any species present within the polygon; no live whitebark or limber pine trees)
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: For those polygons that had an X modifier recorded, whitebark and/or limber pine trees were present, though no living trees were visible in the photos.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value:: Y - Dead and Alive (significant dead trees of any species, and live whitebark and/or limber pine trees present within the polygon)
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: For those polygons that had a Y modifier recorded, a significant number of dead trees were noticed. Some alive whitebark and/or limber pine trees were also noticed.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value:: Z - Alive (all whitebark and limber pine trees present within the polygon appear alive within the polygon)
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: For those polygons that had a Z modifier recorded, all whitebark and/or limber pine trees appeared to be alive.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute:

Attribute_Label: NVC2_L1X

Attribute_Definition:

This field contains level 1 (formation class) maps codes, as defined by the National Vegetation Classification scheme (version 2, draft). Level 1 is also known as the formation class. A vegetation classification unit of high rank (1st level) defined by a characteristic combination of dominant growth forms adapted to a very basic set of moisture/temperature regimes.

Attribute_Definition_Source:

National Vegetation Classification Standard, Version 2 - Working Draft

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Agricultural Vegetation
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: Areas of hayfields or croplands are included in this formation class.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Forest and Woodland
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: Forests contain trees usually taller than 5m (16ft), shorter only when forest regeneration (from fire, bug kill, blow-down) with a well-developed understory of shrubs and/or herbaceous growth. Canopy cover usually >60%, but may go as low as 25%. Woodlands contain trees generally shorter than 10m (35ft) with an understory of herbaceous/dwarf shrub and/or rock. Stands shorter than 2m (6ft) are mapped as subalpine fir-Engelmann spruce woodland (WFS) regardless of tree species. Canopy cover usually >25%, but may go as low as 10%. Under sparsest cases, shrubland, dwarf-shrubland, and herbaceous types are inherent; these are too numerous and not necessarily defined.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Non-vegetated Land (non-NVC)
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: A category used to classify lands with limited capacity to support life and typically having less than 1 percent vegetative cover. Vegetation, if present, is widely spaced. Map classes in this group are; glacier/snowfields, natural or artificial lakes or ponds, quarries, residential or commercial areas, railroads or roads, and streams or rivers.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project and National Vegetation Classification Standard, Version 2 - Working Draft

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Nonvascular and Sparse Vascular Vegetation
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: Only one map class fell into the level 1 class of nonvascular and sparse vascular vegetation class, cliff/talus sparse vegetation. These areas were most commonly found above the tree line on steep rocky mountain slopes, but occasionally were also located in montane and foothill zones.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Polar and High Montane Vegetation
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: Map classes that fell into this level 1 class were used to describe areas containing dwarf shrubs, shrubs shorter than 0.5m (1.5ft) with cover layer >25%.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project and the Vegetation Classification Standard, Federal Geographic Data Committee, June 1997

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Semi-Desert Scrub and Grassland
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: Only one map class fell into this level 1 class, sagebrush - fescue shrub herbaceous. It is restricted in location west of the continental divide in the northwest corner of the park. It closely follows the prairie lands along the Northfork Flathead River corridor, essentially from the U.S.-Canada International border to the Polebridge area.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Shrubland and Grassland
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: Shrublands are contain shrubs with heights between 0.5-5m (1.5-16ft). Grasslands are dominated by perennial grasses and grass-like plants.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Vegetation Classification Standard, Federal Geographic Data Committee, June 1997

Attribute:

Attribute_Label: NVC2_L2X

Attribute_Definition:

The level 2 classification contains the formation subclass entries. The subclass name reflects the structure, physiognomy and environmental factors that characterize the subclass. The primary environmental factor is macroclimate.

Attribute_Definition_Source:

National Vegetation Classification Standard, Version 2 - Working Draft

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Cool Semi-Desert Scrub and Grassland
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: Only one map class fell into this level 2 class, sagebrush - fescue shrub herbaceous. It is restricted in location west of the continental divide in the northwest corner of the park. It closely follows the prairie lands along the Northfork Flathead River corridor, essentially from the U.S.-Canada International border to the Polebridge area.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Herbaceous Agricultural Vegetation
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: Areas of hayfields or croplands are included in this formation subclass.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value:: Mediterranean, Temperate, and Boreal Nonvascular and Sparse Vascular Vegetation
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: Only one map class fell into the level 1 class of nonvascular and sparse vascular vegetation class, cliff/talus sparse vegetation. These areas were most commonly found above the tree line on steep rocky mountain slopes, but occasionally were also located in montane and foothill zones.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Temperate Forest and Woodland
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: The temperate modifier identifies forests and woodlands located geographically in a region between the polar and tropical regions. Climatically, this region is moderate with distinct seasons of alternating long, warm summers and short, cold winters.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Vegetation Classification Standard, Federal Geographic Data Committee, June 1997

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Temperate and Boreal Alpine Vegetation
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: The temperate modifier identifies forests and woodlands located geographically in a region between the polar and tropical regions. Climatically, this region is moderate with distinct seasons of alternating long, warm summers and short, cold winters. The boreal modifier identifies the northern biogeographical region, subpolar and cold temperate areas. Map classes that fell into this level 1 class were used to describe areas containing dwarf shrubs, shrubs shorter than 0.5m (1.5ft) with cover layer >25%.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project and the Vegetation Classification Standard, Federal Geographic Data Committee, June 1997

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Temperate and Boreal Grassland, Meadow, and Shrubland
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: The temperate modifier identifies forests and woodlands located geographically in a region between the polar and tropical regions. Climatically, this region is moderate with distinct seasons of alternating long, warm summers and short, cold winters. The boreal modifier identifies the northern biogeographical region, subpolar and cold temperate areas.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Vegetation Classification Standard, Federal Geographic Data Committee, June 1997

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Terrestrial Cultural Non-vegetated Land (non-NVC)
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: Cultural non-vegetated lands are areas whose structure, composition, and development are determined by regular human activity. Non-vegetated areas that fall into this subclass are; quarries, residential or commercial areas, and roads or railroads.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project and National Vegetation Classification Standard, Version 2 - Working Draft

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Terrestrial Natural Non-vegetated Land (non-NVC)
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: Naturally occurring non-vegetated areas whose structure, composition, and development are not determined by regular human activity. Non-vegetated areas that fall into this subclass are; glaciers or snowfields, natural or artificial lakes or ponds, and streams or rivers.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project and National Vegetation Classification Standard, Version 2 - Working Draft

Attribute:

Attribute_Label: NVC2_L3X

Attribute_Definition:

The level 3 classification contains the formation entries. The formation name reflects the structure, physiognomy and environmental factors that characterize the formation. The primary environmental factors are soil moisture conditions and elevation. Physiognomic terms are sometimes more specific than the class or subclass name. All physiognomic terms should be defined in the vegetation type description.

Attribute_Definition_Source:

National Vegetation Classification Standard, Version 2 - Working Draft

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Alpine Scrub, Forb Meadow, and Grassland
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: Map classes in this category are; dwarf-shrub/herbaceous complex: dry - mesic, and white dryad dwarf-shrubland.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Cool Semi-Desert Scrub and Grassland
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: The map class in this category is; sagebrush - fescue shrub herbaceous.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Cool Temperate Forest and Woodland
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: Map classes in this category are; cedar - hemlock forest (mesic phase), Douglas-fir forest, Douglas-fir woodland, Krummholz shrubland, limber pine woodland, lodgepole pine forest, lodgepole pine woodland, mixed conifer - deciduous forest, ponderosa pine woodland, poplar - birch forest, subalpine fir - Engelmann spruce forest, subalpine fir - Engelmann spruce woodland, subalpine larch woodland, western larch forest, and whitebark pine woodland.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Cultivated Crop
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: The map class in this category is; hayfield/cropland.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Developed Land (non-NVC)
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: Map classes in this category are; quarry, residential/commercial area, and road/railroad.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Glacier, Ice, and Snowfield (non-NVC)
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: The map class in this category is; glacier/snowfield
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value:: Temperate and Boreal Cliff, Scree, Talus, and Other Rock Vegetation
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: The map class in this category is; cliff/talus sparse vegetation.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value:: Temperate and Boreal Wet Riparian, Freshwater Marsh, and Shrub Swamp
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: Map classes in this category are; deciduous wet shrubland, dwarf-shrub/herbaceous complex: mesic - wet, exposed shoreline herbaceous: pioneering vegetation, exposed shoreline sparse vegetation (eroded embankment phase), exposed shoreline sparse vegetation (wet riparian/basin phase), permanently flooded herbaceous, semi-permanently flooded herbaceous, and wet meadow herbaceous.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Temperate Grassland, Forb Meadow, and Shrubland
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: Map classes in this category are; burned vegetation: bare soil, deciduous shrubland: avalanche/snow burial, deciduous shrubland: dry - mesic, grassland herbaceous, mixed conifer - deciduous shrubland: avalanche/snow burial, mixed conifer regenerate forest, and mixed regenerate shrubland.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Temperate Wetland Forest and Woodland
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: Map classes in this category are; black cottonwood forest, cedar - hemlock forest (wet phase), Engelmann spruce - wet shrub forest, Engelmann spruce forest, lodgepole pine wet forest, and mixed conifer - deciduous wet forest.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Water-body (non-NVC)
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: Map classes in this category are; natural/artificial lake/pond, and stream/river.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute:

Attribute_Label: NVC2_L5X

Attribute_Definition:

The level 5 classification is the macrogroup. Macrogroups are vegetation classification units of intermediate rank (5th level), defined by a group of plant communities with a common set of specific growth forms and many diagnostic plant taxa (including many character taxa of the dominant growth forms), preferentially sharing a similar broad geographic region and regional climate, and disturbance.

Attribute_Definition_Source:

National Vegetation Classification Standard, Version 2 - Working Draft

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Developed and Other Cultural Area (non-NVC)
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: The map classes in this category are; quarry, residential/commercial area, and road/railroad.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value:: Northern (Cool) Rocky Mountain - Vancouverian Montane Shrubland and Grassland
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: The map classes in this category are; deciduous shrubland: avalanche/snow burial, deciduous shrubland: dry - mesic, grassland herbaceous, and mixed conifer - deciduous shrubland: avalanche/snow burial.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Northern Great Basin Shrub Steppe and Grassland
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: The map class in this category is; sagebrush - fescue shrub herbaceous.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Open Water-body (non-NVC)
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: The map classes in this category are; natural/artificial lake/pond and stream/river.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Perennial Glacier and Snowfield (non-NVC)
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: The map class in this category is; glacier/snowfield.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Rocky Mountain Alpine Scrub, Forb Meadow, and Grassland
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: The map classes in this category are; dwarf-shrub/herbaceous complex: dry - mesic and white dryad dwarf-shrubland.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Rocky Mountain and Great Basin Wet Forest
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: The map classes in this category are; dwarf-shrub/herbaceous complex: black cottonwood forest, cedar - hemlock forest (wet phase), Engelmann spruce - wet shrub forest, Engelmann spruce forest, lodgepole pine wet forest, and mixed conifer - deciduous wet forest.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Rocky Mountain Cliff, Scree, Talus, and Other Rock Vegetation
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: The map class in this category is; cliff/talus sparse vegetation.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Rocky Mountain Lower Montane Forest and Woodland
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: The map classes in this category are; cedar - hemlock forest (mesic phase), Douglas-fir forest, Douglas-fir woodland, limber pine woodland, ponderosa pine woodland, and western larch forest.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Rocky Mountain Subalpine and High Montane Forest and Woodland
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: The map classes in this category are; Krummholz shrubland, lodgepole pine forest, lodgepole pine woodland, mixed conifer - deciduous forest, poplar - birch forest, subalpine fir - Engelmann spruce forest, subalpine fir - Engelmann spruce woodland, subalpine larch woodland, and whitebark pine woodland.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Rocky Mountain Successional Vegetation
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: The map classes in this category are; burned vegetation: bare soil, mixed conifer regenerate forest, and mixed regenerate shrubland.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Temperate and Tropical Row Crop/Close Grown Crop
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: The map class in this category is; hayfield/cropland.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Western North America Freshwater Shrub, Marsh, and Wet Meadow
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: The map classes in this category are; deciduous wet shrubland, dwarf-shrub/herbaceous complex: mesic - wet, exposed shoreline herbaceous: pioneering vegetation, exposed shoreline sparse vegetation (eroded embankment phase), exposed shoreline sparse vegetation (wet riparian/basin phase), permanently flooded herbaceous, semi-permanently flooded herbaceous, and wet meadow herbaceous.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute:

Attribute_Label: NVC2_L6X

Attribute_Definition:

The level 6 classification is the unit of intermediate rank (6th level) defined by a group of plant communities with a common set of specific growth forms and several diagnostic species (taxa) (including character species of the dominant growth forms), preferentially sharing a similar set of regional edaphic (soil conditions), topographic, and disturbance factors.

Attribute_Definition_Source:

National Vegetation Classification Standard, Version 2 - Working Draft

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Developed Area (non-NVC)
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: The map class in this category is; residential/commercial area.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Inter-Mountain Basin Montane Sagebrush Steppe
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: The map class in this category is; sagebrush - fescue shrub herbaceous.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Mountain Perennial Glacier and Snowfield (non-NVC)
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: The map class in this category is; glacier/snowfield.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Northern Rocky Mountain Avalanche Chute Shrubland
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: The map classes in this category are; deciduous shrubland: avalanche/snow burial and mixed conifer - deciduous shrubland: avalanche/snow burial.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Northern Rocky Mountain Conifer Swamp and Riparian Forest
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: The map class in this category is; cedar - hemlock forest (wet phase).
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Northern Rocky Mountain Lower Montane Deciduous Shrubland
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: The map class in this category is; deciduous shrubland: dry - mesic.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Northern Rocky Mountain Montane Riparian Forest
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: The map classes in this category are; black cottonwood forest and mixed conifer - deciduous wet forest.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Northern Rocky Mountain Ponderosa Pine Woodland
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: The map class in this category is; ponderosa pine woodland.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Open Water Stream/River and Lake/Pond (non-NVC)
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: The map classes in this category are; natural/artificial lake/pond and stream/river.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Other Cultural Area (non-NVC)
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: The map classes in this category are; quarry and road/railroad.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Rocky Mountain Alpine Cliff, Scree, and Other Rock Vegetation
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: The map class in this category is; cliff/talus sparse vegetation.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Rocky Mountain Alpine Dry Scrub and Fell-field
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: The map class in this category is; white dryad dwarf-shrubland.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Rocky Mountain Alpine Meadow
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: The map class in this category is; dwarf-shrub/herbaceous complex: dry - mesic.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Rocky Mountain Cedar - Hemlock Rainforest
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: The map class in this category is; cedar - hemlock forest (mesic phase).
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Rocky Mountain Conifer Swamp and Riparian Forest
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: The map classes in this category are; Engelmann spruce - wet shrub forest, Engelmann spruce forest, and lodgepole pine wet forest.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value:: Rocky Mountain Early Successional Forest, Shrubland, and Forb Meadow
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: The map classes in this category are; burned vegetation: bare soil, mixed conifer regenerate forest, and mixed regenerate shrubland.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Rocky Mountain Mesic Montane Conifer Forest
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: The map classes in this category are; Douglas-fir forest, Douglas-fir woodland, and western larch forest.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Rocky Mountain Montane Grassland
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: The map class in this category is; grassland herbaceous.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Rocky Mountain Montane Limber Pine - Juniper Woodland
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: The map class in this category is; limber pine woodlands.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Rocky Mountain Shoreline Vegetation
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: The map classes in this category are; exposed shoreline herbaceous: pioneering vegetation, exposed shoreline sparse vegetation (eroded embankment phase), and exposed shoreline sparse vegetation (wet riparian/basin phase).
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value:: Rocky Mountain Subalpine (Cool) Deciduous Broadleaf and Mixed Forest
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: The map classes in this category are; mixed conifer - deciduous forest and poplar - birch forest.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Rocky Mountain Subalpine and Montane Riparian Shrubland
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: The map class in this category is; deciduous wet shrubland.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Rocky Mountain Subalpine Mesic Conifer Forest and Woodland
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: The map classes in this category are; Krummholz shrubland, subalpine fir - Engelmann spruce forest, and subalpine fir - Engelmann spruce woodland.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value:: Rocky Mountain Subalpine Whitebark Pine and Subalpine Larch Woodland
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: The map classes in this category are; subalpine larch woodland and whitebark pine woodland.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Rocky Mountain Subboreal and Montane Conifer Forest
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: The map classes in this category are; lodgepole pine forest and lodgepole pine woodland.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Rocky Mountain Wet Meadow and Snowbed
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: The map class in this category is; dwarf-shrub/herbaceous complex: mesic - wet.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Temperate Row Crop/Close Grown Crop
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition: The map class in this category is; hayfield/cropland.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Enumerated_Domain:

Enumerated_Domain_Value: Western North America Emergent Marsh
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition:: The map classes in this category are; permanently flooded herbaceous, semi-permanently flooded herbaceous, and wet meadow herbaceous.
Enumerated_Domain_Value_Definition_Source:: Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Vegetation Mapping Project

Attribute:

Attribute_Label: ASSN_CEGL

Attribute_Definition: Community element global codes.

Attribute_Definition_Source: NatureServe

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Unrepresentable_Domain: Community Global Codes

Attribute:

Attribute_Label: ALL_KEY

Attribute_Definition: Alliance key code national codes.

Attribute_Definition_Source: NatureServe

Attribute_Domain_Values:

Unrepresentable_Domain: NVCS Alliance Codes

Distribution_Information:

Distributor:

Contact_Information:

Contact_Organization_Primary:

Contact_Organization: USGS Center for Biological Informatics

Contact_Position: USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program Coordinator

Contact_Address:

Address_Type: mailing and physical address
Address:: United States Geological Survey, Center for Biological Informatics
Address: MS 302, Bldg 810, Room 8000
Address: Denver Federal Center
City: Denver
State_or_Province: Colorado
Postal_Code: 80225
Country: USA

Contact_Voice_Telephone: 303 202-4220

Contact_Facsimile_Telephone: 303 202-4219

Contact_Facsimile_Telephone: 303 202-4229

Contact_Electronic_Mail_Address: gs-b-npsveg@usgs.gov

Resource_Description: Downloadable Data

Distribution_Liability:

The U.S. Geological Survey and the National Park Service shall not be held liable for improper or incorrect use of the data described and/or contained herein. These data and related graphics (if available) are not legal documents and are not intended to be used as such.

The information contained in these data is dynamic and may change over time. The data are not better than the original sources from which they were derived. It is the responsibility of the data user to use the data appropriately and consistent within the limitations of geospatial data in general and these data in particular. Any related graphics (if available) are intended to aid the data user in acquiring relevant data; it is not approriate to use the related graphics as data.

The U.S. Geological Survey and the National Park Service gives no warranty, expressed or implied, as to the accuracy, reliability, or completeness of these data. It is strongly recommended that these data are directly acquired from an U.S. Geological Survey and National Park Service servers and not indirectly through other sources which may have changed the data in some way. Although these data have been processed successfully on a computer system at the U.S. Geological Survey, no warranty expressed or implied is made regarding the utility of the data on another system or for general or scientific purposes, nor shall the act of distribution constitute any such warranty. This disclaimer applies both to individual use of the data and aggregate use with other data. It is also strongly recommended that careful attention be paid to the contents of the metadata file associated with these data. Mention of trade names or commercial products in this metadata report does not constitute endorsement or recommendation for use by the U. S. Department of the Interior, U. S. Geological Survey and National Park Service.

Standard_Order_Process:

Digital_Form:

Digital_Transfer_Information:

Format_Name: HTML

Digital_Transfer_Option:

Online_Option:

Computer_Contact_Information:

Network_Address:

Network_Resource_Name:: <http://biology.usgs.gov/npsveg/glac/index.html>

Fees: None

Metadata_Reference_Information:

Metadata_Date: 20070718

Metadata_Review_Date: 20080131

Metadata_Contact:

Contact_Information:

Contact_Organization_Primary:

Contact_Organization: USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program Coordinator

Contact_Address:

Address_Type: mailing and physical address
Address:: U.S. Geological Survey, Center for Biological Informatics, MS 302,
Room 8000, Building 810, Denver Federal Center
City: Denver
State_or_Province: Colorado
Postal_Code: 80225
Country: USA

Contact_Voice_Telephone: (303) 202-4220

Contact_Facsimile_Telephone: (303) 202-4219

Contact_Electronic_Mail_Address: gs-b-npsveg@usgs.gov

Metadata_Standard_Name:

FGDC-STD-001.1-1999 Content Standard for Digital Geospatial Metadata, 1998 Part 1: Biological Data Profile, 1999

Metadata_Standard_Version: FGDC-STD-001-1998

Metadata_Extensions:

Online_Linkage:: <http://metadata.nbii.gov/portal/community/Communities/Toolkit/Metadata/FGDC_Metadata/>
Profile_Name: Biological Data Profile FGDC-STD-001.1-1999

Generated by mp version 2.7.24 on Thu Jan 31 10:20:11 2008

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