U.S. Geological Survey-National Park Service Vegetation Mapping Program 20080801 vector digital data USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore Vegetation Mapping Project Denver, Colorado U.S. Geological Survey, Center for Biological Informatics A detailed report on how this data set was created is available to download from the Vegetation Mapping Program's Web site. The report discusses methods and results, and includes plant community descriptions and dichotomous keys, map classification and descriptions, and AA contingency tables. It also provides information on the aerial photographs and how they were interpreted. Detailed background information for each map class and attribute code contained in this data set is provided in this report. http://www1.usgs.gov/vip/indu/indugeodata.zip doi:10.5066/F76Q1V64 The geographic information system (GIS) format spatial data set of vegetation for Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore (INDU) was created by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS)-National Park Service (NPS) Vegetation Mapping Program (VMP). The INDU covers an area of approximately 37,050 ha (15,000 acres), and includes approximately 15 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline. Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore is divided into seven units (East Unit, West Unit, Calumet Prairie, Heron Rookery, Hobart Prairie Grove, Hoosier Prairie, and Pinhook Bog). The map classification scheme used to create the vegetation data set is designed to represent local plant communities at the finest level possible using the National Vegetation Classification System. Physiognomic information was also recorded, including tree height, canopy density, and coverage patterns. The vegetation data set was developed by interpreting aerial photographs collected in 2004 and extensive field surveys. Individuals who cooperated in this project include; USGS Center for Biological Informatics, NPS Biological Resources Management Division, USGS Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center, NPS Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, and NatureServe. The vegetation data are distributed as an ESRI format file geodatabase, stored in Universal Transverse Mercator zone 16 mapping coordinates, North American Datum 1983. The USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program (VMP) is a cooperative effort by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and the National Park Service (NPS) to classify, describe, and map existing vegetation of national park units for the Natural Resource Inventory and Monitoring Program. The goals of this project are to (1) adequately describe and map plant communities of Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore and (2) provide the NPS Inventory and Monitoring Program, resource managers, and biological researchers with useful baseline vegetation information. The Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore (INDU) covers approximately 15,000-acres of land on the southern end of Lake Michigan, in a highly developed and industrialized region of the United States. The park extends from Gary, IN (population 103,000) located on the eastern side of the Chicago metropolitan area (population 9 million) to Michigan City, IN (population 33,000). The INDU was authorized and given protection as a National Lakeshore in 1966, after a 67-year movement to save the area from development. The INDU contains more than 1,135 native plant species and ranks seventh in plant diversity amongst all national parks in the United States. The creation of a vegetation map for INDU was conducted as a part of a larger effort to map the Great Lakes Network of National Parks, Lakeshores, and Monuments (Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, Grand Portage National Monument, Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Isle Royale National Park, and Voyageurs National Park). A detailed report on how the INDU vegetation map was created is available. The initial product delivery for the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore Vegetation Mapping Project was in October 2008. An update to select products was completed in September 2009. Since the initial delivery of products, the program name has undergone a name change. For purposes of this metadata, most references to the "USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program" are now the "NPS Vegetation Inventory Program." Occasionally, references to point of contacts are now the "USGS Vegetation Characterization Program." 20041021 20041024 ground condition Complete None planned Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore and environs -87.467880 -86.831757 41.720944 41.504123 none National Lakeshore USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program National Park Service U.S. Geological Survey Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore Vegetation Map Land Cover Land Use Photointerpretation Photo Interpretation Vegetation Mapping National Vegetation Classification Standard National Vegetation Classification System NVCS U.S. National Vegetation Classification USNVC none Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore United States Indiana Lake County Porter County La Porte County A computer software program capable of reading and displaying data stored as an ESRI format file geodatabase is required. 1) Those using the spatial database should understand the data and determine for themselves the fitness of the data prior to use. 2) For publication and dissemination, citations or credit should be given to the USGS Center for Biological Informatics, NPS Biological Resources Management Division, USGS Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center, NPS Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, and NatureServe. 3) Mention of trade names or commercial products in this metadata report does not constitute endorsement or recommendation for use by the U.S. Department of the Interior, U.S. Geological Survey. USGS BRD Center for Biological Informatics USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program Coordinator mailing and physical address

Denver Federal Center, Building 810, MS 302

Denver Colorado 80225 (303) 202-4220 303-202-4219 gs-b-npsveg@usgs.gov Microsoft Windows 2000 Version 5.2 (Build 3790) Service Pack 2; ESRI ArcCatalog 9.2.0.1324 The Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore vegetation map has an overall attribute accuracy of 78.2% (Kappa index of 76.9%); calculated using information collected at 484 accuracy assessment sampling sites. All polygon features were checked for potential topology and attribute errors using the software program ArcGIS (version 9.2). Topology checks were performed to make sure each polygon was closed, no dangling features were present, each polygon contained a labeling point, and to make sure that no duplicate lines, polygons, or labels were present. All features identified by the photointerpreters were automated. Information stored in the map codes used by the photointerpreters (e.g., vegetation community, tree height, vegetation cover) are stored in the data set's attribute table and a series of lookup tables. The map codes are cross-referenced to the National Vegetation Classification System, at all physiognomic and floristic levels. A standard minimum mapping unit (MMU) of 0.5 ha (1.24 acres) was used, with the exceptions of certain wetlands in the West Unit where a MMU of 0.1 ha (0.25 acres) was used. A secondary MMU of 2.0 ha (4.96 acres) was used for physiognomic feature changes within a particular map class. A set of MMU templates were developed to help the photo interpreters determine minimum polygon size during the interpretation process. Because of angle distortions inherent to nonrectified aerial photos and slight scale changes from high ridges to valley bottoms, the MMU was applied liberally. Also, vegetation types unique to their surroundings (e.g., emergent wetland within an upland forest setting) were often mapped down to 0.25 ha (0.62 acres). The photointerpreted data were georeferenced and orthorectified using the software program Orthomapper, 3.75-minute USGS digital orthophoto quadrangles, and 1/3-degree national elevation data sets. The reference orthophotos have a horizontal root mean square error (RMSE) of no greater than 7.0 meters. Field control for the orthophoto's reference images were acquired by third order class 1 or better survey methods, sufficiently spaced to meet National Map Accuracy Standards (NMAS) for 1:12,000-scale products. No elevation information is stored in this data set. Instead, elevation data was used during the orthorectification process minimize or eliminate distortions caused by changes in elevation. U.S. Geological Survey-National Park Service Vegetation Mapping Program 20041024 Color infrared diapositives and contact prints USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore Vegetation Mapping Program Denver, Colorado U.S. Geological Survey The contractor used to collect the photos was Williams Aerial & Mapping, 1843 Commerce Dr. Suite "B," South Bend, Indiana 46628, Phone: 574.287.2104, Fax: 574.287.2113, http://www.w-a-m.com/ 12000 Color Infrared Diapositive Aerial Photographs and Contact Prints 20041021 20041024 ground condition 12K Color IR Photos In October 2004, Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore was photographed using color infrared film at a scale of 1:12,000. The timing of these photographs was intended to capture peak leaf color change, so distinctions between various deciduous forest types would be easier to see. These photographs were the primary images used during the photo interpretation process. U.S. Geological Survey-National Park Service Vegetation Mapping Program 20041024 Color infrared diapositives and contact prints USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore Vegetation Mapping Program Denver, Colorado U.S. Geological Survey The contractor used to collect the photos was Williams Aerial & Mapping, 1843 Commerce Dr. Suite "B," South Bend, Indiana 46628, Phone: 574.287.2104, Fax: 574.287.2113, http://www.w-a-m.com/ 6000 Color Infrared Diapositive Aerial Photographs and Contact Prints 20041024 ground condition 6K Color IR Photos In October 2004, the West Unit of Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore was photographed using color infrared film at a scale of 1:6,000. The scale of photography was selected to aid in the classification of the West Unit's numerous wetland features. The timing of the photography was intended to capture the peak leaf color change. National Park Service - Great Lakes Network 20050101 True color contact print USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore Vegetation Mapping Program Denver, Colorado U.S. Geological Survey The contractor used to collect the photos was Williams Aerial & Mapping, 1843 Commerce Dr. Suite "B," South Bend, Indiana 46628, Phone: 574.287.2104, Fax: 574.287.2113, http://www.w-a-m.com/ 12000 True color contact prints 20041024 ground condition 12K True Color Photos During the spring 2005, true color aerial photography was collected for the entire Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore. These were collected during the deciduous leaf-off period, to aid photo interpreters in identifying the evergreen tree and shrub components within the forest communities. USGS - National Mapping Division U.S. Geological Survey Unknown digital database file Sioux Falls, MN EROS Data Center A digital orthophoto is a digital image of an aerial photograph in which displacements caused by the camera and the terrain have been removed. It combines the image characteristics of a photograph with the geometric qualities of a map. The standard digital orhthophoto produced by the USGS is a black-and-white, or color infrared, 1-meter ground resolution quarter quadrangle image. The accuracy and quality of USGS digital orthophotos must meet National Map Accuracy Standards at 1:12,000 scale for 3.75-minute quadrangles and at 1:24,000-scale for 7.5-minute quadrangles. http://eros.usgs.gov/#/Find_Data/Products_and_Data_Available/DOQs 12000 Digital database file unknown publication date USGS DOQ This data set was used during the orthorectification process of the interpreted photo overlays. The digital orthophoto quadrangles (DOQs) are used by the software program Orthomapper as an existing data set that has already been orthorectified (i.e., georeferenced, and elevation distortions have been removed). The photo overlays are aligned with the DOQs, then the software program uses data stored in the DOQ images along with available elevation data to georeference and remove elevation distortions from the photo overlays (i.e., orthorectify). U.S. Geological Survey Eros Data Center Unknown Digital database file Sioux Falls, SD U.S. Geological Survey The National Elevation Dataset (NED) 1/3 Arc Second is a raster product assembled by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). NED 1/3 Arc Second is designed to provide National elevation data in a seamless form with a consistent datum, elevation unit, and projection. Data corrections are made in the NED 1/3 Arc Second assembly process to minimize, but not eliminate, artifacts, perform edge matching, and fill sliver areas of missing data. NED 1/3 Arc Second has a resolution of 1/3 arc-second (approximately 10 meters) for the conterminous United States. http://gisdata.usgs.gov/website/seamless/viewer.htm Digital database file unknown unknown 1/3 NED Data Provided elevation data for the study area. Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore Vegetation Mapping Project U.S. Geological Survey, Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center National Park Service, Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore NatureServe 20080101 database Denver, Colorado U.S. Geological Survey A map classification was developed specifically for the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore Vegetation Mapping Project. It includes a crosswalk to the National Vegetation Classification System floristic and physiognomic levels (names and codes), and the 2001 National Land Cover Database (NLCD). The final report for this mapping project contains a detailed listing of this classification scheme. http://www.usgs.gov/core_science_systems/csas/vip/parks/indu.html database 20041001 ground condition INDU Vegetation Classification Map classification defining polygon data (vegetation and general land cover). National Spatial Data Infrastructure, Federal Geographic Data Committee, Vegetation Subcommittee 19970601 document Standards Vegetation Classification and Information Standards Reston, Virginia Federal Geographic Data Committee Federal Geographic Data Committee. 1997. Vegetation classification standard, FGDC-STD-005. http://www.fgdc.gov/standards/projects/FGDC-standards-projects/vegetation document 19970601 publication date NVCS Physiognomic Classes (FGDC 1997) Standard vegetation classification system (physiognomic levels) used for classification structure. U.S. Geological Survey, Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program Unknown stable-base material La Crosse, Wisconsin U.S. Geological Survey, Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center 12000 stable-base material 20041021 20041024 ground condition INDU Photo Overlays The photo overlays contain the vegetation information developed by the photointerpreters. These data were used by the automation team to generate the digital database of land cover for Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore. U.S. Geological Survey, Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program 2008 digital dataset La Crosse, Wisconsin U.S. Geological Survey, Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center 12000 digital database 20041021 20041024 ground condition Orthorectified aerial photographs Provided the orthorectified surface used to orthorectify the photo overlays. U.S. Geological Survey, Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program 2008 digital database La Crosse, Wisconsin U.S. Geological Survey, Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center 12000 digital dataset 20041001 ground condition Orthorectified photo overlays Provided the orthorectified line work, used to create the geographic information system (GIS) dataset. United States Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service Unknown online Web site Baton Rouge, Louisiana USDA, NRCS, National Plant Data Center Program partners who participated in the development of the Plants Database include; Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Smithsonian Institution, National Museum of Natural History, US Army Corps of Engineers, USDA, Agricultural Research Service, USDA, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, USDA, Farm Services Agency, USDA, Forest Service, USDA, Rural Development, USDI, Bureau of Land Management, USDI, Fish and Wildlife Service, National Wetland Inventory, USDI, Geological Survey, USDC, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), University of Nebraska-Omaha and North Dakota State University, Southern Illinois University-Carbondale, FNA/Missouri Botanical Garden, and the Biota of North America Program. http://plants.usda.gov/ online database unknown access date USDA Plants Database The U.S. Department of Agriculture's online plant database was used as the source for plant names used in this project, both scientific and common names. The Multi-Resolution Land Characteristics (MRLC) Consortium U.S. Geological Survey U.S. Environmental Protection Agency U.S. Forest Service National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration National Aeronautics and Space Administration National Park Service National Resources Conservation Service LANDFIRE Bureau of Land Management U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Office of Surface Mining Unknown Web page Sioux Falls, South Dakota Multi-Resolution Land Characteristics (MRLC) Consortium http://www.epa.gov/mrlc/nlcd-2001.html Web Page unknown publication date 2001 National Land Cover Class Definitions One of the lookup tables created for use with the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore (INDU) vegetation data can be used to link those data to the 2001 National Lake Cover Dataset. Introduction: Mapping vegetation of Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore (INDU) and environs involved four primary steps; (1) field reconnaissance, (2) map classification, (3) photointerpretation, and (4) digital map automation and database development. Although these steps occurred sequentially, they overlap to some degree. 20040101 Field Reconnaissance: Before photointerpretation was initiated, photo interpreters made several visits to the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore (INDU) to perform field reconnaissance. At this time, field trips were performed to a variety of locations within the INDU. Printed copies of the aerial photos that would be used during the photointerpretation process were brought along, so conditions on the ground could be compared to images contained in the photos. These trips helped the photointerpreters determine which plant types could be identified within the aerial photos. 12K Color IR Photos 6K Color IR Photos 12K True Color Photos NVCS Physiognomic Classes (FGDC 1997) INDU Vegetation Classification 20050501 Map Classification: The ultimate goal of the map classification was to represent the plant communities of Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore as defined by the individuals who performed the vegetation classification project. The photointerpreters cooperated with the vegetation specialists to determine which vegetation types and communities could be accurately identified using the aerial photography. Some of the classes appearing in the final vegetation map might be comprised of a single vegetation type as identified by the vegetation classifiers, others may contain one of several different types. Not all vegetation types/communities visible on the ground are identifiable in an aerial photograph. 12K Color IR Photos 6K Color IR Photos 12K True Color Photos NVCS Physiognomic Classes (FGDC 1997) INDU Vegetation Classification 20050601 Photointerpretation: Photointerpretation was performed using Richards MIM light tables and Bausch & Lomb Zoom 240 stereoscopes with variable zoom capabilities. Photointerpretation was performed on the 1:12,000-scale color infrared diapositives from 2004, using acetate overlays, Rapidograph ink pens (4x0-size, 0.18 mm) and Rapidraw black India ink (3084; waterproof, fast drying for film). During this process, Spring 2005 true-color aerial photography at a scale of 1:12,000 and Fall 2004 color-infrared aerial photography at a scale of 1:6,000 was used as a reference source to assist with the identification of various land cover types. Detailed information on how the photointerpretation processes were performed is available in the project's final report. 12K Color IR Photos 6K Color IR Photos 12K True Color Photos INDU Vegetation Classification NVCS Physiognomic Classes (FGDC 1997) 20060101 INDU Photo Overlays Orthorectification: Each aerial photograph was scanned at 400 dots per inch (dpi) and 64 million colors, producing a series of Tagged Image File Format (TIFF) images. The software program OrthoMapper was then used to register each image, establishing both horizontal and vertical coordinates. Existing orthophoto quadrangles (3.75-minute digital products) produced by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) were used to derive horizontal coordinates, 1/3 arc second digital elevation models (DEMs) were used to derive vertical measurements. Once orthophotos were created from the scanned photographs, each photointerpreted overlay was scanned at a resolution to 600dpi to create a 2-bit (black-and-white) TIFF image. The software OrthoMapper was then used to process each overlay, using the orthophoto created from overlay's corresponding aerial photograph to orthorectify the interpreted overlay. The individual orthorectified photos and overlays were then merged into workable groups for subsequent digitizing. INDU Photo Overlays 12K Color IR Photos USGS DOQ 1/3 NED Data 20070601 Orthorectified aerial photographs Orthorectified photo overlays Conversion to GIS format files: The software program ArcGIS Desktop was then used to convert the orthorectified overlays into a GIS format data. The software program's ArcScan processing module was used to convert the raster images into vector data. A series of checks were performed to search for potential errors, then the photo interpreter's map classification codes were added to the vector data. Orthorectified photo overlays INDU Photo Overlays 20071010 Creation of the Geodatabase: The attribute table of the initial GIS format vegetation map contained only the photo interpreter's map codes. To make these data more meaningful, a series of lookup tables were created which contained items such as the map class names, physiognomic information (plant heights, area of coverage, distribution patterns), and National Vegetation Classification System association and alliance codes. An ESRI format File Geodatabase was created to hold these data, as well as the vegetation point data collected for the map classification and attribute accuracy projects, the park boundary, and aerial photograph information. A series of relationship class files were added to the file geodatabase, to make it easier for users to associate the lookup tables with the GIS datasets. 20080501 Accuracy Assessment: An in-depth accuracy project was performed on the geographic information system (GIS) format land cover data set. This was done to measure the probability of map accuracy (or, the absence of error). A series of computer selected random sampling sites were chosen for each map class in the data set. The mapping coordinates of these sites were then provided to field crews, who used global positioning system (GPS) receivers to locate each site. The land cover at each of these sites was compared to data developed by the photo interpreters, to determine the thematic accuracy of the data set. Detailed information on how this assessment was performed and its results are available in the project report. The Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore vegetation map has an overall attribute accuracy of 78.2% (Kappa index of 76.9%); calculated using information collected at 484 accuracy assessment sampling sites. 20080515 U.S. Geological Survey, Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center Resource Mapping Team Leader mailing and physical address

2630 Fanta Reed Road

La Crosse Wisconsin 54603-1223 United States of America (608) 783-6451 (608) 783-8058 7:30 AM - 4:00 PM, M-F Ask receptionist to connect you with the Resource Mapping Team Leader. Metadata imported. R:\NP_MAP\INDU\INDU_GeoDbaseTables_jc\veg_polygons.xml 20080801 Update: An update was performed to the feature class and relational tables within the geodatabase. This update accommodated a decision from the project's wrap-up meeting to add an additional woodland type to the project. Select polygons determined to be this woodland type were reassigned to the type's map code, and the feature class and relational tables were updated with additional attribute information. 20090930 Vector G-polygon 4023 Universal Transverse Mercator 16 0.999600 -87.000000 0.000000 500000.000000 0.000000 coordinate pair 0.000100 0.000100 meters North American Datum of 1983 Geodetic Reference System 80 6378137.000000 298.257222 fcl_INDU_veg_polys The fcl_INDU_veg_polys table contains the attribute information directly associated with the polygon data (i.e., vegetation map). If this data set were exported out of the file geodatabase and saved as a shapefile, the information contained in fcl_INDU_veg_polygons are the attributes which would carry through to the new shapefile (e.g., Map_Class_ID, Map_Att_Code, Map_Class_Nm, ...). The other attribute/lookup tables (tbl_vegmap_aa, tbl_vegmap_alliance, ...) contain additional information that can be associated with the dataset's attributes, through a series of geodatabase relationship classes (rc_aapoly_VegMapInfo, rc_Alliance_VegMapInfo, ...). USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program OBJECTID_12 Sequential unique whole numbers that are automatically generated. ESRI Values used to describe layer Shape Internal feature geometry ESRI Values used to describe layer Acres Size of each polygon, expressed as Acres. USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program Values used to describe layer Hectares Size of each polygon, expressed as Hectares. USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program Values used to describe layer Map_Poly_ID Individual polygon identifiers, created by combining the Park's identification code (INDU = Indiana Dunes) and the ObjectID_12 tracking numbers. USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program Values used to describe layer Map_Class_ID Three character codes used to describe the map class assigned to each polygon (e.g., FAF = Beech-Maple Glaciated Forest (beech-maple phase)). USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program Values used to describe layer Map_Att_Code The Map_Att_Code is the alphanumeric code used by the photo interpreters. The first three characters (those that proceed the hyphen) are the Map_Class_ID codes. The three characters after the hyphen are the plant density modifier (written as a single digit number), the plant dispersal modifier (written as a single character), and tree height modifier (written as a single digit number). USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program Values used to describe layer Map_Class_Nm Descriptive text associated with each map class (i.e., land cover type). USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program Values used to describe layer Shape_Length The length of each polygon's perimeter arc, stored in meters. ESRI Values used to describe layer Shape_Area The area of each polygon, stored in meters. ESRI Values used to describe layer Perimeter Perimeter of feature in internal units. ESRI Positive real numbers that are automatically generated. Area Area of feature in internal units. ESRI Positive real numbers that are automatically generated. tbl_vegmap_aa This lookup table contains a summary of attribute accuracy information for each map class. Detailed information on how the accuracy assessment project was performed is available in the report on how the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore vegetation map was created. When the vegetation polygon data are brought into an ArcGIS map, these data will be automatically linked to the vegetation polygons. The information is accessible through the Identify function. When Identify is used, you will need to (1) expand the data tree located on the left-hand side of the Identify window, (2) locate the lookup table tbl_vegmap_aa, and (3) click on the entry located underneath. If you would like to (a) see these data in the attribute table of the vegetation polygon dataset (b) be able to perform attribute queries against the lookup table's data, or (c) be able to symbolize (shade or label) the vegetation polygons using the lookup table's data, you will need to use the "Add Join" geoprocessing tool. "Add Join" is located under Data Management Tools ---> Joins. The Map_Class_ID field is Input and Output Join Field. Map_Class_ID exists in both tables, lookup and attribute. USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program OBJECTID Internal feature numbers ESRI Values used to describe layer Map_Class_ID Three character codes used to describe the map class assigned to each polygon (e.g., FAF = Beech-Maple Glaciated Forest (beech-maple phase)). These codes can be used to link data contained in tbl_vegmap_aa to the vegetation polygon's (flc_INDU_veg_polys) attribute table. USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program Values used to describe layer AA_Map_Class_Merge A listing of the map classes which were merged together to attain the reported accuracy assessment results. USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program Values used to describe layer AA_User_Result "Users accuracy," is the probability that the map actually represents what was found on the ground (also referred to as errors of commission). USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program Values used to describe layer User_90_Conf_Int The accuracy rating associated with the user's 90% confidence interval. USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program Values used to describe layer AA_Producer_Result "Producers' accuracy," is the probability that an accuracy assessment point has been mapped correctly (also referred to as an error of omission). USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program Values used to describe layer Producer_90_Conf_Int The accuracy rating associated with the producer's 90% confidence interval. USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program Values used to describe layer tbl_vegmap_alliance This lookup table contains information on the floristic alliance associated with each map class. Alliances are physiognomically uniform group of plant associations sharing one or more dominant or diagnostic species, which as a rule are found in the uppermost stratum of the vegetation. The names of dominant and diagnostic species are the foundation of the alliance names. At least one species from the dominant and/or uppermost stratum is included. In rare cases where the combination of species in the upper and lower strata is strongly diagnostic, species from other strata are included in the name. Species occurring in the same stratum are separated by a hyphen ( - ), and those occurring in a different strata are separated by a slash ( / ). Species occurring in the uppermost stratum are listed first, followed successively by those in lower strata. The lowest possible number of species is used for an alliance name, with a maximum of four species allowed. When the vegetation polygon data are brought into an ArcGIS map, these data will be automatically linked to the vegetation polygons. The information is accessible through the Identify function. When Identify is used, you will need to (1) expand the data tree located on the left-hand side of the Identify window, (2) locate the lookup table tbl_vegmap_alliance, and (3) click on the entry located underneath. If you would like to (a) see these data in the attribute table of the vegetation polygon dataset (b) be able to perform attribute queries against the lookup table's data, or (c) be able to symbolize (shade or label) the vegetation polygons using the lookup table's data, you will need to use the "Add Join" geoprocessing tool. "Add Join" is located under Data Management Tools ---> Joins. The Map_Class_ID field is Input and Output Join Field. Map_Class_ID exists in both tables, lookup and attribute. USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program OBJECTID Internal feature numbers ESRI Values used to describe layer Map_Class_ID Three character codes used to describe the map class assigned to each polygon (e.g., FAF = Beech-Maple Glaciated Forest (beech-maple phase)). These codes can be used to link data contained in tbl_vegmap_aa to the vegetation polygon's (flc_INDU_veg_polys) attribute table. USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program Values used to describe layer Alliance_Key_Code Alpha numeric codes used to identify each plant alliance. & National Vegetation Classification Standard (1997) Values used to describe layer Alliance_Scientific_Name Alliance descriptions, written using scientific plant names. USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program & USDA Plants Database Values used to describe layer Alliance_Common_Name Alliance descriptions, written using common plant names. USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program & USDA Plants Database Values used to describe layer tbl_vegmap_association This lookup table contains Association level data for each map class. Associations are the finest floristic unit in the national vegetation classification standard, characterized by diagnostic species that occur in all strata (overstory and understory) of the vegetation. The diagnostic species used to determine both the Alliance and Association are primarily the dominant species. When data indicate that additional diagnostic species (including differential, indicator, or character species) provide a better characterization of ecological patterns, they are used in addition to the dominant species to classify these floristic units. When the vegetation polygon data are brought into an ArcGIS map, these data will be automatically linked to the vegetation polygons. The information is accessible through the Identify function. When Identify is used, you will need to (1) expand the data tree located on the left-hand side of the Identify window, (2) locate the lookup table tbl_vegmap_association, and (3) click on the entry located underneath. If you would like to (a) see these data in the attribute table of the vegetation polygon dataset (b) be able to perform attribute queries against the lookup table's data, or (c) be able to symbolize (shade or label) the vegetation polygons using the lookup table's data, you will need to use the "Add Join" geoprocessing tool. "Add Join" is located under Data Management Tools ---> Joins. The Map_Class_ID field is Input and Output Join Field. Map_Class_ID exists in both tables, lookup and attribute. USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program OBJECTID Internal feature numbers ESRI Values used to describe layer Map_Class_ID Three character codes used to describe the map class assigned to each polygon (e.g., FAF = Beech-Maple Glaciated Forest (beech-maple phase)). These codes can be used to link data contained in tbl_vegmap_aa to the vegetation polygon's (flc_INDU_veg_polys) attribute table. USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program Values used to describe layer Association_CEGL_Code Alpha numeric codes used to identify each plant association. National Vegetation Classification Standard (1997) Values used to describe layer Association_Scientific_Name Association descriptions, written using scientific plant names. USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program & USDA Plants Database Values used to describe layer Association_Common_Name Association descriptions, written using common plant names. USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program & USDA Plants Database Values used to describe layer tbl_vegmap_clsf This lookup table is used to interpret information contained in the map attribution codes (Map_Att_code, i.e., the photo interpretation codes). Each element in the map attribution code (map class, plant densities, dispersal pattern, and tree height) is listed as an alphanumeric code and its descriptor. The relationship between this table and the polygon data set's attribution table is one-to-one. Each polygon in the feature data set has a corresponding entry in this lookup table. When the vegetation polygon data are brought into an ArcGIS map, these data will be automatically linked to the vegetation polygons. The information is accessible through the Identify function. When Identify is used, you will need to (1) expand the data tree located on the left-hand side of the Identify window, (2) locate the lookup table tbl_vegmap_clsf, and (3) click on the entry located underneath. If you would like to (a) see these data in the attribute table of the vegetation polygon dataset (b) be able to perform attribute queries against the lookup table's data, or (c) be able to symbolize (shade or label) the vegetation polygons using the lookup table's data, you will need to use the "Add Join" geoprocessing tool. "Add Join" is located under Data Management Tools ---> Joins. The Map_Poly_ID field is Input and Output Join Field. Map_Poly_ID exists in both tables, lookup and attribute. USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program OBJECTID Internal feature numbers ESRI Values used to describe layer Map_Poly_ID Individual polygon identifiers, created by combining the Park's identification code (INDU = Indiana Dunes) and the ObjectID_12 tracking numbers. USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program Values used to describe layer Map_Class_ID Three character codes used to describe the map class assigned to each polygon (e.g., FAF = Beech-Maple Glaciated Forest (beech-maple phase)). USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program Values used to describe layer Map_Att_Code The Map_Att_Code is the alphanumeric code used by the photo interpreters. The first three characters (those that proceed the hyphen) are the Map_Class_ID codes. The three characters after the hyphen are the plant density modifier (written as a single digit number), the plant dispersal modifier (written as a single character), and tree height modifier (written as a single digit number). USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program Values used to describe layer Map_Class_Name The map classes represent the finest level of detail obtainable through photointerpertation. Some of the map classes may consist of a single plant association, others are plant alliances. Plant species are written using common names, as recognized by NatureServe. USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program & USDA Plants Database Values used to describe layer Density_Code The coverage density codes are an estimation of the percentage of area covered by a given map class, within a given polygon. USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program Values used to describe layer Density_Name The density names are written description of what each density code stands for. Density code 1 = Closed Canopy/Continuous (60-100% coverage), 2 = Open Canopy/Discontinuous (25-60% coverage), and 3 = Dispersed-Sparse Canopy (10-25% coverage). USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program Values used to describe layer Pattern_Code The pattern codes are used to describe how the plants are arranged within each polygon USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program Values used to describe layer Pattern_Name The written descriptions of the pattern codes. Pattern code A = evenly dispersed, B = clumped/bunched, C = gradational/transition, and D = regularly alternating. USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program Values used to describe layer Height_Code The height codes are used to describe the average plant height of trees and shrubs. USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program Values used to describe layer Height_Name The height names are the written descriptions of the plant height codes. Height code 2 = 15-30 meters (50-98 feet), 3 = 5-15 meters (16-50 feet), and 4 = 0.5-5 meters (1.5-16 feet). USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program Values used to describe layer tbl_vegmap_nvc1 This lookup table contains the National Vegetation Classification Scheme (NVCS) Class and Formation codes and names. These categories provide physiognomic information for the map classes, which can refer to both the structure (height and spacing) and growth form (gross morphology and growth aspect) of the predominant species as well as leaf characters (seasonality, shape, phenology, duration, size, and texture) of the dominant or component plants. When the vegetation polygon data are brought into an ArcGIS map, these data will be automatically linked to the vegetation polygons. The information is accessible through the Identify function. When Identify is used, you will need to (1) expand the data tree located on the left-hand side of the Identify window, (2) locate the lookup table tbl_vegmap_association, and (3) click on the entry located underneath. If you would like to (a) see these data in the attribute table of the vegetation polygon dataset (b) be able to perform attribute queries against the lookup table's data, or (c) be able to symbolize (shade or label) the vegetation polygons using the lookup table's data, you will need to use the "Add Join" geoprocessing tool. "Add Join" is located under Data Management Tools ---> Joins. The Map_Class_ID field is Input and Output Join field. Map_Class_ID exists in both tables, lookup and attribute. USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program OBJECTID Internal feature numbers ESRI Values used to describe layer Map_Class_ID Three character codes used to describe the map class assigned to each polygon (e.g., FAF = Beech-Maple Glaciated Forest (beech-maple phase)). USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program Values used to describe layer NVC1_Class_Code The alphanumeric (via. roman numerals) codes used to describe the National Vegetation Classification (NVC) Classes. For those map classes not associated with a NVC Class, the value "N/A" was entered. National Vegetation Classification Standard (1997) Values used to describe layer NVC1_Class_Name The National Vegetation Classification (NVC) Class name descriptions. The Classes are defined by the relative percent canopy cover of the tree, shrub, dwarf shrub, herb, and nonvascular life form in the uppermost strata during the peak of the growing season. National Vegetation Classification Standard (1997) Values used to describe layer NVC1_Formation_Code The National Vegetation Classification (NVC) alphanumeric Formation codes for the map classes. For those map classes not associated with a NVC Formation, the value "N/A" was entered. National Vegetation Classification Standard (1997) Values used to describe layer NVC1_Formation_Name The National Vegetation Classification (NVC) Formation name descriptions. The Formations are a level in the classification based on ecological groupings of vegetation units with broadly defined environmental and additional physiognomic factors in common. USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program & National Vegetation Classification Standard (1997) Values used to describe layer tbl_vegmap_xwalk This lookup table contains information used to cross-walk the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore vegetation data with the 2001 National Land Cover Dataset (http://seamless.usgs.gov/products/nlcd01.php). When the vegetation polygon data are brought into an ArcGIS map, these data will be automatically linked to the vegetation polygons. The information is accessible through the Identify function. When Identify is used, you will need to (1) expand the data tree located on the left-hand side of the Identify window, (2) locate the lookup table tbl_vegmap_association, and (3) click on the entry located underneath. If you would like to (a) see these data in the attribute table of the vegetation polygon dataset (b) be able to perform attribute queries against the lookup table's data, or (c) be able to symbolize (shade or label) the vegetation polygons using the lookup table's data, you will need to use the "Add Join" geoprocessing tool. "Add Join" is located under Data Management Tools ---> Joins. The Map_Class_ID field is Input and Output Join field. Map_Class_ID exists in both tables, lookup and attribute. USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program OBJECTID Internal feature numbers ESRI Values used to describe layer Map_Class_ID Three character codes used to describe the map class assigned to each polygon (e.g., FAF = Beech-Maple Glaciated Forest (beech-maple phase)). These codes can be used to link data contained in tbl_vegmap_aa to the vegetation polygon's (flc_INDU_veg_polys) attribute table. USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program Values used to describe layer NLCD_2001_Code When the 2001 National Land Cover Dataset (NLCD) is downloaded from USGS's seamless data server, they are distributed as a georeferenced .tif image. The cell values assigned to individual pixels in the image are used to classify the data, as each represents a different land cover type. The NLCD_2001_Code table field uses those same numeric values to cross-walk the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore vegetation data to the NLCD. 2001 National Land Cover Class Definitions Values used to describe layer NLCD_2001_Name The name of the National Land Cover Dataset (NLCD) map class. 2001 National Land Cover Class Definitions Values used to describe layer Map_Class_Name The name of the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore map class. USGS-NPS Vegetation Mapping Program Values used to describe layer USGS/CSS/Core Science Analytics and Synthesis USGS-NPS Vegetation Characterization Program Coordinator mailing and physical address

Denver Federal Center, Building 810, MS 302

Denver Colorado 80225 (303) 202-4220 303-202-4219 gs-b-npsveg@usgs.gov Downloadable Data The U.S. Geological Survey and the National Park Service shall not be held liable for improper or incorrect use of the data described and/or contained herein. These data and related graphics (if available) are not legal documents and are not intended to be used as such. The information contained in these data is dynamic and may change over time. The data are not better than the original sources from which they were derived. It is the responsibility of the data user to use the data appropriately and consistent within the limitations of geospatial data in general and these data in particular. Any related graphics (if available) are intended to aid the data user in acquiring relevant data; it is not approriate to use the related graphics as data. The U.S. Geological Survey and the National Park Service gives no warranty, expressed or implied, as to the accuracy, reliability, or completeness of these data. It is strongly recommended that these data are directly acquired from an U.S. Geological Survey and National Park Service servers and not indirectly through other sources which may have changed the data in some way. Although these data have been processed successfully on a computer system at the U.S. Geological Survey, no warranty expressed or implied is made regarding the utility of the data on another system or for general or scientific purposes, nor shall the act of distribution constitute any such warranty. This disclaimer applies both to individual use of the data and aggregate use with other data. It is also strongly recommended that careful attention be paid to the contents of the metadata file associated with these data. Mention of trade names or commercial products in this metadata report does not constitute endorsement or recommendation for use by the U. S. Department of the Interior, U. S. Geological Survey and National Park Service. HTML http://www.usgs.gov/core_science_systems/csas/vip/parks/indu.html Internet Access None 20090930 20100531 USGS/CSS/Core Science Analytics and Synthesis USGS-NPS Vegetation Characterization Program Coordinator mailing and physical address

Denver Federal Center, Building 810, MS 302

Denver Colorado 80225 (303) 202-4220 303-202-4219 gs-b-npsveg@usgs.gov FGDC Biological Data Profile of the Content Standard for Digital Geospatial Metadata FGDC-STD-001.1-1999 http://www.usgs.gov/core_science_systems/csas/metadata/index.html