STEW-MAP: Technical Guide for Survey Creation and Data Collection and Visualization

The Stewardship Mapping and Assessment Project (STEW-MAP) is a comprehensive way to survey, map, and track all groups that work to conserve, manage, monitor, transform, advocate for, or educate the public about their local environments. STEW-MAP methodology provides a common platform where a wide range of stakeholders who are interested in shared stewardship activities can support natural resource management and community development. It can also serve as a way for managers and communities to better understand and support stewardship in their area. The STEW-MAP data are represented in a web mapping application that is hosted in ArcGIS Online (AGOL), a cloud-based mapping and analysis software used to make maps, to analyze data, and to share and collaborate.

This technical guide helps STEW-MAP users successfully develop and implement the process in their cities, towns, regional landscapes, and national forests and grasslands. Although this guide is geared primarily toward USDA Forest Service geographic information system (GIS) professionals with experience using GIS desktop and online web applications, readers who are not familiar with the technologies referenced here can gain a basic awareness of the STEW-MAP process by reading the section introductions. Non-Forest Service users may have challenges because some of the links in the document are available only to users within the Forest Service firewall. These partners will need help from Forest Service ArcGIS Online administrators, who may be able to provide access to carry out the workflows. These exceptions are identified, and users are directed to resources to assist them.