Access digital copies of guides and regulations publications from the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.
Issue link: http://digital.outdoornebraska.gov/i/770640
5 NGPC and NatureServe are developing an online, interactive tool for conservation planning and conducting environmental reviews of proposed development projects. The Conservation and Environmental Review Tool (CERT) will make a variety of natural resource and other map layers available in an easy-to- use format. Map layers will include boundaries of protected areas and Biologically Unique Landscapes, distributions of at-risk species, and 10 different base maps, including relief and satellite imagery. To aid conservation planning, users will be able to explore and query different map layers. They will also be able to draw in or upload the boundary of their project, make and print maps, and download tables listing selected natural resources in the vicinity of their project. The CERT will also automate the environmental review process. Under Nebraska law, any project that is conducted, funded, or authorized by a state agency must be reviewed by NGPC to determine if it will adversely impact threatened or endangered species. Currently, project proponents submit maps and descriptions of their projects to NGPC staff. This review process can take up to a month, depending on the backlog of other submitted projects. With this new tool, they will be able to draw or upload their project boundary, indicate the types of activities that will occur, and submit it for an automated review. The tool will analyze the project location and activities against the distribution of threatened and endangered species and other data layers and make a determination on the potential impacts of the project. While some projects are more complex and will require staff review, most project reviews will be fully automated and completed in less than an hour. The primary users of this tool will be those working in the area of conservation, as well as developers and consultants needing environmental reviews. However, the public will also be able to use the tool to learn more about natural resources in areas of interest to them throughout the state. NGPC plans to have the CERT available online by early spring, 2017. ✔ New Online Tool for Conservation By Rick Schneider, Heritage Program Manager, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission a s o a d o i p s Protected areas along the Niobrara River. Distribution of rare plant species in Nebraska.