Santa Barbara Botanic Garden

The Santa Barbara Botanic Garden will initiate a plant-mapping project using geographical information system (GIS) technology. A professional survey of the Garden's trail and grid system will be conducted, a GIS database that integrates smoothly with existing plant records database will be built, and the location of the plantings will be mapped. The GIS will help the garden recover from the devastating effects of the Jesusita Fire and allow for improved management and greater public access to the collections. Once established, a GIS mapping system will allow the staff to investigate patterns of plant mortality and devise view-shed and tree canopy plans. Maps created by the system will also be helpful landscape design tools that will allow the Garden to effectively rebuild displays in burned areas as well as accurately identify and relabel plantings.