EVS Worldwide Map - My Vision Continues
I am a long time user of both WVS (World Vector Shorelines) and GSHHS (Global Self-consistent, Hierarchical, High-resolution Shoreline) vector map files. They are both drawn at a scale of 1:250,000. Beginning with WVS map files over 4-years ago, I quickly ran into frustrations as I attempted to convert vector lines into vector polygons. WVS has many inherent issues that make this transformation difficult. I learned of GSHHS and set about to replace my WVS map files. However, GSHHS requires a conversion into ARC Ungenerate format (the format I work with) and is Pacific centered. I managed to have the file converted and transformed into Greenwich centered and I started working with GSHHS map files. I appreciated the fact that I had the "best" free complete worldwide vector map coverage. But something was missing. Using Space Shuttle imagery, I found that GSHHS was too coarse and Shuttle imagery had to be georectified.
I then discovered Landsat ETM+2000 mosaics. They were free. One needed sufficient time and modem speed and this excellent base imagery could be yours. I spent one summer two years ago and I now have all of the coverage for world shorelines. I produced my first vector map from Landsat ETM+ and compared it to the WVS/GSHHS shorelines. The difference is dramatic!
EVS (polygon) Compared to GSHHS (Black Line)
After that mapping experience, I now use GSHHS produced maps only for broad area coverage (1:500,000 and above). I've seen the promised land and I can't settle for anything less!
My quest is to produce an Enhanced Vector Shoreline (EVS) World Map using a collaborative approach consisting of a trained team of 100+ map makers. They will be trained to digitize
How To Make An EVS Map
shorelines following a rigorous protocol, to include all features unique to this highly dynamic environment. Each individual will be responsible for either a portion, single or multiple ETM+ mosaic(s). They will digitize all assigned shorelines found on their Landsat mosaic, using a carefully developed criteria and procedure. Their finished vector map files will be evaluated and corrected by a quality assurance team of professional geographers (volunteers). Finally, the finished product (1:100,00 scale and better) will be compiled and made available to all potential users at no cost.
The construction of the EVS Worldwide map will be done as a non-profit project. The cost of development, implementation and final product support will be covered by donations of cash, software and computer hardware from both public and private organizations and/or grants that will enable this team to: 1) Introduce the EVS Worldwide Mapping Project to the target group of potential participants - highly motivated high school and college students from the America's, Africa, Asia, Europe, Australia/Oceania. 2) Select and train the team of digitizers/mapmakers. 3) Implement the communication system to move Landsat mosaic images, transfer digitized pre-processed vector map files, provide for daily contact and easily facilitate the processing of a completed Enhanced Vector Shoreline map file. 4) Take all of the processed vector map files and combine them into a single world map product.
Ideally, this project will have worldwide participation. It will be a mapping effort by a worldwide community of dedicated mappers. Each participant, upon completion of their assigned portion of the project, will receive a laptop computer loaded with GIS software as tangible compensation for their efforts. The same one they used in compiling their respective portion of the project. More importantly, they will have received consistent, quality training and practical experience in the "gentle" art of map making. From this group will come the next generation of map makers, trained and experienced.
This project will take from one to two years to complete the world shoreline at EVS precision. As the completed EVS World Map is broadly disseminated, new layers of information will be required. This is where the project is transformed into a for-profit enterprise, as these desired layers will be completed at a fair-market value. And what team better to accomplish this next phase than the original members of the EVS mapping team (highly motivated, trained and experienced map makers). The creation and integration of additional layers of useful information will engage this team in a highly profitable enterprise for years to come.
EVS World Map will become the default worldwide map for years to come.
Mine is the vision. Now, I need the team and the funding. Any takers?
P.S. - Hi-Res Imagery provides shoreline coverage for much of the world. If this imagery were made available, the digitized shoreline precision could be tremendously enhanced. Would a company such as Digital Globe make their imagery available for a worldwide shoreline mapping project? Perhaps. To be the company that helps to fund and sponser this effort is a public relations coup.
