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: bentpt.e00, birds.e00, esi.e00, fish.e00, habitats.e00, hydro.e00, index.e00, invert.e00, m_mammal.e00, mgt.e00, reptiles.e00, socecon.e00, vessels.e00, wetlands.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.
To create the WETLANDS data layer, review maps were plotted at 1:24,000 scale for verification of polygonal 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 were plotted onto hardcopy draft maps. Following the delivery of draft maps to the participating resource experts, a second set of interviews was conducted to review the maps. If necessary, edits to the WETLANDS data layer were made based on the recommendations of the resource experts, and final hardcopy maps and digital data were created.
The ESI rankings progress from low to high susceptibility to oil spills. To determine the sensitivity of a particular intertidal shoreline habitat, the following factors are integrated: (1) Shoreline type (substrate, grain size, tidal elevation, origin); (2) Exposure to wave and tidal energy; (3) Biological productivity and sensitivity; (4) Ease of cleanup. Prediction of the behavior and persistence of oil in intertidal habitats is based on an understanding of the dynamics of the coastal environments, not just the substrate type and grain size. The intensity of energy expended upon a shoreline by wave action, tidal currents, and river currents directly affects the persistence of stranded oil. The need for shoreline cleanup activities is determined, in part, by the slowness of natural processes in removal of oil stranded on the shoreline. The potential for biological injury, and ease of cleanup of spilled oil, are also important factors in the ESI ranking. Generally speaking, areas exposed to high levels of physical energy, such as wave action and tidal currents, and low biological activity rank low on the scale, whereas sheltered areas with associated high biological activity have the highest ranking.