Social Network Driven Ecological Mapping System
- Detailed Technology Description
- Web application integrates social networking with habitat mapping tocreate practice communities focused on describing outdoor locations.
- Others
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- Video at YardMap website: www.yardmap.org
- Patent application: 13/812,308
- *Abstract
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Aweb application was developed that integrates social networking with habitat mapping tocreate practice communities focused on describing outdoor locations, such as their yards or favorite public spaces. The dynamic tool allows mappers to draw and store objects on Google Maps or Google Earth 3D, and post badges orsigns advertising their activities. Italso stores those objects and associated data in a database, including social network connections, keeping historic records toexamine changes over time.
This technology can be used for a wide variety of environmental and habitat mapping applications. The first application “YardMapNetwork” is in development as an interactive mapping and design app that integrates social networking with crowdsourced habitat mapping. It also connects with other bird-related citizen science data to answer scientific questions and provide guidance for bird conservation efforts.
Potential Applications:- Personal property mapping and management, e.g. garden design
- Crowdsourcing habitat mapping for environmental assessment and planning
- Natural resource inventories, e.g. mandated by the state or required for easement evaluation
- Display of habitat, eco-resources and other activities by hotels and resorts
- Incorporation into mapping associated with on-line real-estate sales
- Advertisement of greening on corporate campuses
- Research on habitat change over time, etc.
Advantages:
- Flexible and interactive mapping system
- Stores data for access by others via social networks.
- Can be integrated with systems such as map-based crowdsourcing, real-estate maps, or other shared mapping services.
- *Licensing
- JessLyga607-255-0270JML73@cornell.edu
- Country/Region
- USA
