Abstract

California Collaborates to Steward the National Hydrography Dataset (NHD)
Track: Infrastructure
Authors: Jane Schafer-Kramer, Joel Osuna

The NHD, the digital version of the blue lines on a topo map, is rigorously maintained using technical mapping standards, ArcGIS software, custom tools, and a stewardship-system to bring local knowledge into a national dataset. In California, the state’s Department of Water Resources recently assumed the role of steward for the NHD with a uniquely collaborative approach, partnering with two California State Universities for technical expertise, and a statewide outreach network.