Mapping: ArcGIS, Google Maps & DIVA

I have had a lot of experience with GIS/mapping in undergrad. However, using the google map tool made it incredibly easy to generate detailed and useful maps. For my project, I focused on my study area which is the Pūpūkea Marine Life Conservation District, which again, is a protected area that plays a critical role in preserving marine biodiversity. This area is home to various species that are essential for maintaining the ecological balance, and it's crucial that we monitor and protect it effectively. Using the mapping tool, I was able to highlight several key environmental concerns and conservation efforts within this district.

One of the main features I added to my map was a series of pinpoints indicating sites of bank erosion around the district. Bank erosion can lead to significant land loss and negatively impact the surrounding marine ecosystems, so it's important to identify and address these areas promptly.

Next, I focused on a local beach within the conservation district that has become a hotspot for pollution. I included layers that illustrate the sources of pollution, particularly plastics and zinc. Plastics are a significant issue, often left behind by beachgoers or washed ashore from the ocean. Zinc pollution, primarily from tourists' sunscreen, also poses a threat to marine life. While it might seem minor, the cumulative effect of numerous tourists can be quite harmful.

Urban pollution runoff from nearby roads was another critical layer I added. During rains, pollutants from the roads are washed into the water, contributing to the overall degradation of water quality. This urban runoff can contain oils, heavy metals, and other contaminants that pose a threat to both marine and human life. I marked the boundaries of the Conservation District clearly and included information about the specific regulations in place. Also, after being able to visit the area I was able to learn that in order to emphasize the importance of conservation, the district requires that visitors adhere to strict guidelines, ensuring they do not disturb the habitat—taking nothing and leaving nothing behind. This helps to protect the diverse species that call this area home and maintain the delicate ecological balance.

Overall, this mapping tool as well as ArcGIS, DIVA, proved to be an excellent resource for anyone looking to quickly generate detailed maps, whether for educational purposes, advocacy, or planning. The ability to add multiple layers of supporting data makes it a powerful tool for anyone passionate about environmental conservation, particularly in areas as important as the Pūpūkea Marine Life Conservation District.


https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/edit?mid=1xbW8AKVVsowz3OagI87yb4V42B5rk3A&usp=sharing

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