Abstract Detail

Conservation Biology

Hansen, Sara [1], Cahill, Blake [1], Hackett, Rachel [2], Monfils, Michael [3], Monfils, Anna [4].

Biodiversity data management from field collection to integration.

The need for effectively managed and curated biodiversity data is growing. Natural history collections, published occurrence data, survey or monitoring program data, and field data vary greatly in their structure and application, but all are useful. When data from these diverse sources are successfully integrated, they can provide a broader scope and expanded applicability. Aggregation of these sources should follow best practices that maintain proper attribution and high data quality. There is often a disconnect between collectors of data, who work in the field and may be researchers, managers, or other conservation professionals, and end users of the data, who may or may not be involved in the initial collection. Preparation for fieldwork should include considerations of the type and structure of data to be collected, so that their potential is maximized within the context of the research project and they can be seamlessly integrated with other data sources. Data collection methods must be plausible and sustainable in the field while retaining the structure and detail needed for integration and analysis. We provide a framework for the movement of data through the steps of collection, aggregation, and analysis. Once data are collected, they are manipulated to meet the needs of the research project and integration with other field data and preserved specimens. The integrated dataset can be utilized similar to field data alone, or it can inform larger-scale research questions and management actions. We will share how past projects inform our efforts to simplify and streamline data collection and management so their usefulness is maximized and the burden on the field collector minimized.

1 - Central Michigan University, Earth and Ecosystem Science, 2100 Biosciences, Mount Pleasant, MI, 48859, United States
2 - Michigan Natural Features Inventory, Michigan State University, Michigan Natural Features Inventory, PO Box 13036, Lansing, MI, 48901, USA
3 - Michigan Natural Features Inventory, Michigan State University, Michigan Natural Features Inventory, PO Box 13036, Lansing, MI, 48901, United States
4 - Mount Pleasant, MI, 48859, United States

Keywords:
none specified

Presentation Type: Oral Paper
Session: CB01, Conservation Biology 1
Location: /
Date: Wednesday, July 21st, 2021
Time: 11:00 AM(EDT)
Number: CB01005
Abstract ID:443
Candidate for Awards:None