The RBWRP initiated the development of a Geographic Information System (GIS) which operates on IDRISI software. The three bands (red visible, near infrared and mid-infrared) of Landsat Thematic Mapper digital satellite imagery taken on May 31st, 1994 were merged into a single colour composite image from which the dominant spectral response patterns or signatures were extracted through a classification process. Ontario Base Map (OBM) data was developed into 12 distinct images including forest cover, aerial drainage, linear drain lines, buildings, pits and piles, cultural lines (fences), transportation, political boundaries, townships, relief, delineation between land and water and an image delineating the boundaries of the watershed. In addition, 13 vector files were produced which can be overlaid on top of the composite satellite image or on top of any of the other OBM image layers. These vector files delineate wooded areas, aerial drainage, linear drain lines, buildings, pits and piles, cultural lines, cultural points, transportation lines, transportation points, spot elevations, political boundaries, relief and town points. Layers of historical wetland mapping (1955, 1972, 1977, 1985, 1994) were also added to the system. In the future, the RBWRP hopes to add natural heritage information regarding the watershed to this system in support of watershed planning and resource management. Significant features previously mapped along 90 km of watercourse need to be digitized. Soils, erosion estimates, climate, property ownership, Areas of Natural and Scientific Interest, Environmentally Sensitive Areas and other information need to be integrated into the existing system to develop a comprehensive data model. This database of detailed information can be used in project development and decision-making RBWRP to:
This page was developed by Donna Wonnacott, Stan Sowinski &
Vicki McKay
Last revised July 3, 1998