Abstract

Merced Fire Department Weed Abatement Program: Inspection, Compliance, Cleanup
Track: Fire, Rescue, and EMS
Authors: RuthAnne Harbison

The Nuisance Abatement Program is designed to eliminate fire and health hazards associated with seasonal growth of weeds and other hazards such as the accumulation of litter, brush, rubbish, scrap wood and similar Materials. Weed abatement inspections take place every spring in several California cities and counties where, for many, data gathering is still paper based and cumbersome. In 2011, searching for a way to use technology for this task, the City of Merced created a GIS web service using current ArcGIS Server technology that provides a more efficient and accurate way to gather and share the data. The web service, which includes imagery for reference and measurement, was very successful this first year.