Suisun Marsh Management Plans
A management plan consists of site information on each club’s infrastructure, (ditches, water control structures, etc.) and recommended management actions.
The first step in this process was for the landowner to fill out a questionnaire providing information about water management, vegetation management, and the location of infrastructures on a map.
After SRCD received the completed questionnaires, a site visit was scheduled with each participating landowner. GPS information was collected, and infrastructure location.
After the data was collected, SRCD staff used Geographic Information System (GIS) and other computer software to create updated management plan maps and corresponding tables of information. Once this step is completed, the landowner will be sent this information to review for accuracy.
Any corrections or changes that need to be made, are done so after landowner proofs and returns to us. Draft information is now becoming final and maps are created. The end product for landowners includes an infrastructure map, vegetation map, and soil map. Landowners can use these maps for various things including U.S. Army Corps of Engineers applications, cost-share applications, yearly wetland maintenance work, or any other club activity where having a map would be useful.
Maps will be sent to landowners through the mail in paper format. However, landowners will be able to view the infrastructure information electronically and create their own maps. Tables of information on infrastructure can be viewed using Excel software. Maps can be provided in image (jpg, giff, etc) or pdf formats. Landowners can create their own maps using a free GIS program called ArcExplorer. Information on how to use the program will be provided on request after final maps are sent.
At the end of every work season, the SRCD Water Managers' will update the management plan's infrastructure maps and information so that the plan will reflect the current condition of the club.
Another portion of the grant is to provide a template of managed wetland operations and related information to the public. This template is now available (click on the link below) provides information on the history of the Suisun Marsh, SRCD’s role in the Marsh, how managed wetlands work, how to improve habitat, and regulatory considerations.
Current Program Status
Final maps will be sent to landowners when completed. Once final maps are received, landowners can contact SRCD to get assistance on use of the ArcExplorer program.
Acknowledgements
The SRCD greatly appreciates the California Bay-Delta Authority for providing the funding for this project.
Thank you to the California Department of Water Resources and Department of Fish and Game staff in providing high-resolution aerial imagery and vegetation data. Thank you to the Natural Resource Conservation Service staff for providing the soil data. For without this imagery and data the maps could not have been created.
SRCD would also like to express thanks to the landowners of the Suisun Marsh in providing information through questionnaires, then taking the time to transport SRCD staff to their property's infrastructure via ATV and boat, and for coordinating with SRCD staff to complete maps for their properties.
Documentation (if applicable):
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