A powerful and effective tool for annual reporting
requirements and funding applications.
With NHT funding application procedures becoming
increasingly complex, and reporting requirements more exacting, presenting your Groups
aims and achievements in the best possible light has never been more important.
In
this example we have used ready to hand aerial photography, and applied advanced
ecological computations to work out a close estimate of the actual number of individual
plants (willows and gorse)infesting a river system. This allows a confident
cost estimate for removal or control in the grant application.
A more detailed view in which the interest is confined to willow
infestation. Study the correlation between the contiguous size of an infestation (hey, the
old willow is a beautiful thing, but who are we to argue - it's a declared noxious weed!),
the density of the infestation, proximity to easy vehicular access and the cost / benefit
ratio of undertaking control measures. It becomes clear using this kind of approach that
maximum benefit per dollar spent is achieved by targetting large extents of high density
with good access. Stating the obvious? Perhaps, but try getting a committee to agree on
priorities. Present compelling evidence and the decision makes itself.
Of course in order to achieve results like these, good data is
essential. Try and take shortcuts in the data colection stage and the entire project
budget (tax payer's money) will most likely be wasted. You need to use Australian
Standards for natural resource surveys - have a look at our tools to
help you get there!
Stating the obvious part 2. Huge infestations close to everyones back
door. Start here!
Transform your Group's notes and collective knowledge
We may share ideals and objectives, but converting
them into a form which is both useful and understandable by all, can be a daunting task!
Look at this jumble of paperwork from one of our pre-tech field trips!
..into the information you need to reach your goals
Specific natural resource data. With our
extensive GIS and natural resource experience, we know what is out there and how to obtain
it. This often can be at little or no cost of supply, in cases where output can be
demonstrated to be in the "public good". Many Landcare projects would currently
fall into this category. We are also able to advise individuals and groups on data types,
availability and suitability for their own specific purposes.
Integrate data and information from different sources..
Including information from your direct activities and
research, to local museum records, Government reports and archives, and commercial
suppliers. Should additional data be needed, we can design, and optionally execute
surveys, specifically tailored to integrate with client's existing databases, including
GIS. We have our own natural resource database which seamlessly integrates
with any GIS software AND generates the user-friendly field survey sheets crucial to
successful field work!
Address your Group's concerns from the best
possible position -
Capabilities
At MapMakers, we appreciate the enormous commitment and effort of the Landcare
movement. We also recognise that Group Members have busy lives and may not always be in a
position to participate "on the ground" as they might prefer. An effective
remedy is for Groups to work from consistent information, incorporating current position,
objectives and progress. Our GIS approach can help you get there. When updated
periodically, you will be able to see progress over your entire district, adjust
priorities if necessary, and importantly be able to demonstrate progress to your
funding bodies and sponsors!
As part of our commitment to the Landcare movement, we offer a 15% discount to all
incorporated Australian Landcare groups!
Data Sourcing and Survey
If data for your Group's area exists, we will find it and get access to it. If you have
additional data, we can incorporate it. If you need more data, we can design and
optionally carry out any necessary survey work.
Information and mapping service tailored to your needs
Any area large or small, from coastal wetlands to alpine peaks! Hard copy maps of any
size, and accompanying reports, statistics, analysis..
Interactive live maps can be prepared for users of almost any PC, allowing you to
further develop maps and keep valuable records up to date on your home or community group
computer, if required. See our GIS support page for
more detailed information on how we can help!
Invaluable tools for funding and reporting purposes
Maps and associated data are a powerful tool for demonstrating need and reporting
progress. With NHT procedures becomes increasingly time consuming, we offer the services
you need to make light work of the heavy paperwork!
Please note that most of the images on our site have been generated primarily
for hard copy, and therefore might not display optimally on your terminal.