September 9, 2015

The Northeast Ocean Data Working Group and partners are hard at work on several exciting products. Stay tuned for release announcements for the following products: 

  • Rebuilt Data Explorer: The Data Explorer is an interactive map on which you can select any combination of data from all of our data themes and view them together on a single map. Previously, the Data Explorer has been separate from our theme maps. We are completely rebuilding the Data Explorer with new functionality and improved performance, and it will be integrated seamlessly with the theme maps.
  • New Habitat Story Map: Each state in the Northeast is using different approaches to map seafloor habitats. Why is this the case and what can we do to make a regional habitat map? We are putting the finishing touches on a new story map to highlight habitat mapping in the Northeast region and to support coordination of mapping for ocean planning.
  • Restoration Map: We are working with a joint subcommittee of the Northeast Regional Planning Body and the Northeast Regional Ocean Council to develop a map of priority projects for ecosystem restoration and conservation that, when implemented, will improve ocean health in New England. The map contains projects to restore watersheds, fish passage, salt marshes, eelgrass, oysters, and other priorities.
  • Recreation Map: We will soon be adding whale watching areas, scuba sites, sailboat racing areas, and other new data to the recreation map. The data have been generated through collaborative efforts of several partner organizations, who compiled and digitized data, held meetings with stakeholders, and conducted participatory GIS mapping sessions.