Abstract

GIS for the Conservation and Management of Greater Sage-Grouse Habitat
Track: Conservation
Authors: Theresa Burcsu, Michael Schindel

A conservation action plan was developed using a collaborative governance approach to conserve and improve greater sage-grouse habitat in Oregon. GIS was used to convey the spatial characteristics of drivers of sage-grouse decline; achieve common understanding of the bird, its conservation, and human activity; identify high value conservation areas; and identify gaps in existing policies and systems. We found GIS to be a powerful tool for inviting dialog and accomplishing collaborative outcomes.