High-Resolution Data Supports Precision Conservation in the Susquehanna

The Chesapeake Conservancy with support from the Chesapeake Bay Program is pioneering development of high-resolution land cover and flow path mapping for the Chesapeake Bay watershed. A 1-m resolution land cover dataset is available using 2013 imagery and high-resolution flow path data is available for the entire Susquehanna Watershed. Flow paths are mapped using Lidar-derived digital elevation models. High-resolution data enables project planning on a finer scale than ever before, critical for precision conservation--implementing the right restoration practices in the right places. Leveraging our high-resolution data, the Chesapeake Conservancy is working with partners in four counties in the Susquehanna watershed to prioritize restoration opportunities and maximize subsequent water quality improvements. By identifying parcels with the greatest potential for mitigating impacts of agricultural runoff in a cost-effective manner, the prioritization analysis increases the efficiency and reach of partner organizations, accelerating their positive impacts on water quality. This presentation will outline methods used to create the high-resolution datasets and examples of potential applications for restoration planning and implementation of practices for the Pennsylvania Watershed Implementation Plan