Data
Introduction
NVRC developed the Conservation Corridors in Northern Virginia Assessment maps using a variety of local, state, and federal geographic information system (GIS) data layers to perform a regional-scale analysis of conservation opportunities in Northern Virginia.
It should be noted that the GIS layers below are based on best available, regionally-consistent data, at the time the maps were developed (2011). In the future, NVRC and its partners will manage the data and incorporating new information, as it becomes available.
It should be noted that the GIS layers below are based on best available, regionally-consistent data, at the time the maps were developed (2011). In the future, NVRC and its partners will manage the data and incorporating new information, as it becomes available.
GIS Layers
The zipped files are available for download, based on the following catagories:
Regional Base Map and Opportunities
Large File, 11MB
This folder includes the base map features, including the areas of Northern Virginia designated for their high ecological value, contributing landscapes that support high value areas, intact tree canopy cover, the regional opportunities identified for the region, and areas that are generally designated as rural and urban based on their land cover type.
Conserved Lands
Large File, 6MB
This folder includes polygon areas that are designated as local, state, and federal parks, refugees, forests, open space, and public and private easements. Even though military lands are not conserved for their ecological integrity, they are also included within this folder.
Cultural Heritage and Nature-Based Recreation
Large File, 3MB
This folder includes point, polygon, and line data for known cultural heritage and nature-based recreation resources. Undeveloped, foreseted landscapes provide context for activities within these areas. Resources in this folder include, regional trails, Chesapeake Gateways, designated scenic waters, historic railroads, scenic roads and byways, parks and conserved areas with public access, public boat ramps, and water trails and blueways.
Water Resource Assets and Impairments
Large File, 17MB
This folder includes water resource assets, such as lakes, ponds, streams, major rivers, watershed boundaries, public drinking water reservoirs and intakes, and resource protection areas. Also, streams that are on Virginia's 303(d) list and do not meet water quality standards are provided. Streams with impairments that are related to land use practices are highlighted, as well (do not support recreation or do not support aquatic life).
Regional Base Map and Opportunities
Large File, 11MB
This folder includes the base map features, including the areas of Northern Virginia designated for their high ecological value, contributing landscapes that support high value areas, intact tree canopy cover, the regional opportunities identified for the region, and areas that are generally designated as rural and urban based on their land cover type.
Conserved Lands
Large File, 6MB
This folder includes polygon areas that are designated as local, state, and federal parks, refugees, forests, open space, and public and private easements. Even though military lands are not conserved for their ecological integrity, they are also included within this folder.
Cultural Heritage and Nature-Based Recreation
Large File, 3MB
This folder includes point, polygon, and line data for known cultural heritage and nature-based recreation resources. Undeveloped, foreseted landscapes provide context for activities within these areas. Resources in this folder include, regional trails, Chesapeake Gateways, designated scenic waters, historic railroads, scenic roads and byways, parks and conserved areas with public access, public boat ramps, and water trails and blueways.
Water Resource Assets and Impairments
Large File, 17MB
This folder includes water resource assets, such as lakes, ponds, streams, major rivers, watershed boundaries, public drinking water reservoirs and intakes, and resource protection areas. Also, streams that are on Virginia's 303(d) list and do not meet water quality standards are provided. Streams with impairments that are related to land use practices are highlighted, as well (do not support recreation or do not support aquatic life).