A web-based mapping application to analyze past wildfire activity based on user-defined choices

Keywords: GIS, dendrochronology, wildfire
Abstract Type: Paper Abstract

Abstract

With the expansion of web-based data repositories, and accessibly platforms by which to access them, there are new abilities to blend methods and data proxies in new ways. The open-access Google Earth Engine is a web-based platform that allows users to access Google’s massive data repository and conduct various geospatial analyses and visualizations, including application development. We present here a web-based mapping app that allows anyone with an internet connection to visualize historic wildfire perimeter data alongside various other data layers, including the recently published North American Fire Scar Network. The user can create an AOI and generate statistics based on the data layers and spatial topology among them within the AOI. We feel this app could be improved through peer-review and become a valuable tool for entities looking to reinstitute fire as a land and cultural resource management practice in their community, particularly when budgets are tight and prioritization of high-risk areas is key.