FRImap
FRImap is the open source framework that various Foothills Research Institute (FRI) Programs have adopted to build their online mapping applications/tools upon. For additional information on the open source framework, please read more about the technology powering the system. These applications have been centralized within a mapping portal for easy access. The following is a description of each FRImap-based application contained within the mapping portal.
FRImap:
Is a new open-source Internet mapping application that is the result of regional partnerships and collaboration between the FRI, GeoConnections, Alberta Sustainable Resource Development (ASRD), Jasper National Park (JNP), Hinton Wood Products (A division of West Fraser Mills Ltd.), and the Town of Hinton.
GeoConnections provided funding for an initial user needs assessment (UNA) project in 2006. The result of the UNA was the identified need for improved sharing of information products between Foothills regional land partners and a framework application to aid in information dissemination. As a result of a subsequent proposal to GeoConnections, the FRI was successful in attaining GeoConnections funding for the creation of FRI Mapper.
FRImap can be used to view spatial data pertaining to the Foothills area of Alberta, Canada. Users (public and partners) can interactively view data layers over various background data layers such as open street map, relief, and a Landsat image. Other theme can be explored including geoadministrative boundaries, access, ecological/vegetation, hydrology, disturbance, other, and FRI project/analysis data. User layers can be created and edited, and maps can be created as .pdf documents. FRI Mapper also includes a density calculator function which for example, can be used to calculate a road density for a particular area of interest.
FRImap is open to both the public and to FRI partners (Alberta Sustainable Resource Development (ASRD), Jasper National Park (JNP), Hinton Wood Products (A division of West Fraser Mills Ltd.), and the Town of Hinton). The major difference between the partner and public site is that partners have access to a richer variety of datasets, have access to the density calculator tool, and create and edit their own custom layers. Due to inherent data sharing agreements, restrictions, and sensitivities, not all partner data can be shared with the public or in some cases non-project partners.
Foothills Landscape Management Forum (FLMF):
The FLMF mapping application is a member-only site that is based on the same technology framework as the FRI Mapper site. This site allows FLMF members to explore through their fingertips a variety of data related to FLMF projects and initiatives.
The NEPTUNE application was originally created as part of the FRI Natural Disturbance Program to help understand how past, present, and future disturbance designs relate to historical natural disturbance patterns on the landscape. The system was originally developed as an ESRI based application and is currently being migrated to the FRImap open source technology framework. This migration will allow improved flexibility and growth for future development of the modeling application and will also eliminate the need for ESRI licensing for potential NEPTUNE users.
Yellowhead Ecosystem Group (YEG):
The YEG mapping application is a member-only site that is based on the technology framework as FRImap. This site will allow YEG members to explore through their fingertips a variety of data related to YEG projects and initiatives. Site completion is expected prior to the end of September 2011