Canadian national sensitivity mapping program

Abstract

Resource and sensitivity mapping has been underway in Canada since at least the early 1970s. Most of this work is in the form of detailed inventories of biological resources in paper map format. These are difficult and expensive to update and often fail to assess environmental sensitivities. In order to become more anticipatory in the management and protection of Canada's renewable resources, funds have recently been allocated under the Green Plan to both Environment Canada and the Department of Fisheries and Oceans to establish a national computerized sensitivity mapping system. The sensitivity-mapping program has the following objectives. Establish the content and develop a national protocol for sensitivity mapping Develop appropriate standards and cartographic guidelines for future mapping Develop implementation plans for the production of computer maps of high priority areas Review and recommend user-friendly computer systems for use by Environment Canada's Environmental Emergency offices across the country Guide the development of regional mapping projects Facilitate the development of systems for incorporation of spill movement and environmental impact estimates on sensitivity maps The program is not intended to duplicate efforts that may be under-way by industry or other departments or provinces. Rather, the re-sources will be used in partnerships to complement ongoing programs where they meet national sensitivity mapping program goals. The mapping program will achieve its objectives and results through extensive cooperation and dialogue with end users, partnerships within the department and other federal departments, partnerships with provinces and the oil industry, collaboration with the international community, joint planning with stakeholders, a thorough evaluation of alternative approaches and significant new advances in sensitivity mapping, emergency response decision making and computer support, and through contracting out.