Bulkley Valley Research Centre - Science in the Public Interest

Compilation and gap analysis of ecosystem information for the Cassiar cumulative impacts assessment area

Project Reference Number: 2012-08

Project Status: Complete

Led by: Adrian de Groot, Drosera Ecological Consulting; Allen Banner, Consultant

Jim Pojar, Consultant

Funder: Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations


The objectives of this project are:

1. Compile existing ecosystem plot data for the Cassiar and Nass TSAs

  •     Compile a VPro plot database of all existing ecosystem full plot data for the study area.
  •     Compile a SIVI plot database of ground call and field visit information.
  •     Locate additional data sources from literature, government agencies, and industry sources.
  •     Enter new ecological data into VPro and SIVI plot databases
  •     Evaluate data quality of all VPRO plots
  •     Clean and harmonize VPRO plot data to standards
  •     Compile  and link plot and site photos to VPro plot records where possible.


2. Classify existing plot data for BGCs occurring within the Cassiar and Nass TSAs

  •     Assign ecosystem plot data to existing BGC version 8 subzone/variants
  •     Add unassigned plot data to existing site series where classifications currently exist.
  •     Create draft classifications from existing plot data and other information where current BGC and/or site unit classifications do not exist.


3. Create a GIS project of existing spatial ecological information

  •     Ecosystem plot locations
  •     Overflight routes, waypoint, notes, and pictures
  •     Other relevant point sample information


4. Gap analysis

  •     Summary of plot data requirements to fill data gaps by BGC and site unit
  •     Draft an itemized and prioritized work plan to fill BEC information, mapping, and data gaps.


5. Rationale for completion of a ecological classification and inventory for the Cassiar

  •     Identified applications of BEC classification and ecological inventory (PEM)
  •     Specific applications of BEC and PEM in cumulative impacts assessment
  •     Describe additional non-BEC information and resource requirements for effective application of PEM  product to a Cassiar cumulative impacts assessment

Related Reports

Publication Date Report Title Authors
April 4, 2013 Ecosystem Classification Rationale and Gap Analysis Component of the Northwest Cumulative Effects Demonstration Pilot Project Adrian de Groot, Allen Banner and Jim Pojar