This data set comprises a portion of the ESI data for Alabama. ESI data characterize the marine and coastal environments and wildlife by their sensitivity to spilled oil. The ESI data include information for three main components: shoreline habitats, sensitive biological resources, and human-use resources.
The Spatial_Data_Organization Information section refers only to the source files in the ARC export format. The following files are included in the data set: birds.e00, esi.e00, fish.e00, habitats.e00, hydro.e00, index.e00, invert.e00, m_mammal.e00, mgt.e00, reptiles.e00, socecon.e00, t_mammal.e00. Associated relational and desktop data tables provided in Arc export and text format are bio_lut, biofile, biores, breed, breed_dt, seasonal, soc_dat, soc_lut, sources, species, and status.
The above digital and/or hardcopy sources were compiled to create the HYDRO data layer. Depending on the type of source data, three general approaches are used for compiling the data layer: (1) hardcopy maps are digitized at their source scale; (2) digital data layers are evaluated and used "as is" or integrated with the hardcopy data sources; and/or (3) overflight changes are digitized from the scanned and registered hardcopy field maps or aerial photography. After the initial shoreline classification, these data are edgematched and checked for logical consistency errors. Review maps are plotted at 1:24,000 scale for verification of polygonal and linear attributes. See the Lineage section for additional information on the type of source data for this data layer. The compiled ESI, biology, and human-use data are plotted onto hardcopy draft maps. Following the delivery of draft maps to the participating resource experts, a second set of interviews is conducted to review the maps. If necessary, edits to the HYDRO data layer are made based on the recommendations of the resource experts, and final hardcopy maps and digital data are created.