An Introduction to GIS for Conservation using QGIS 24 - 28 October 2022 (in Jersey)
In this course
we use QGIS, an open-source programme, to address questions in
ecology, learning how species, habitats and landscapes can be described,
analysed, and graphically represented. Whether identifying biodiversity
hotspots, delineating the most inclusive protected area network, understanding
how species interact with features of the environment, or measuring the extent
of habitat loss, conservationists need to understand how organisms are
distributed across landscapes and are impacted at different spatial scales. GIS is a powerful computing tool
that can practically help you - making it an invaluable skill to guide conservation management decisions.
Who is it for?
Suitable for beginners, or those who wish to refresh their knowledge, this introductory course progresses at a pace to ensure you
get to grips with the basic use of QGIS and feel successful. Although the
content is taught within the framework of environmental conservation, the basic
principles mean this is suitable to anyone considering the use of GIS in
business or science.
No prior knowledge of GIS is required, but
participants should be comfortable working with computers, managing files and
installing software. Not essential to bring a laptop but advantageous.
"Fantastic course that goes beyond ‘simple maps’, it covers
analysis and techniques essential for conservation professionals". GIS course
participant.
What is the course
content?
Predominantly computer based, we work both
individually and as a group to progress through a series of lectures and practical
workshops to slowly build upon your skill set. You will cover the
following:
How
GIS can be used as an analytical tool to represent real-world spatial
relationships.
Data
to be entered into a GIS can be derived from traditional field work, but
context and depth can be added through remotely sensed data, or accessing
freely available data from research institutes and citizen science. Whatever
the source, GIS data can be manipulated to provide in-depth understanding of
the interactions between organisms and different elements of their environments
which works as an excellent aid in supporting conservation planning.
GIS
can also allow us to derive information (e.g. distance between features,
estimate sea floor depth), that can be exported for use in standard statistical
analysis and modelling techniques.
Advances
in GIS and satellite imagery allow research to be conducted very efficiently
and cheaply, often over previously unachievable scales, and in areas inaccessible
by conventional methods.
Given
the power of GIS to underpin conservation action, it is essential that
practitioners understand the ways in which GIS can support the development of
conservation solutions, the opportunities it provides as well as its
limitations.
Where will the course
be run?
The course will be based at the Durrell Conservation Academy at Durrell’s headquarters in Jersey. Teaching will be delivered by Durrell’s own conservation specialists and directed by Dr Helen Gath, Conservation Training Officer, Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust.
How much will it cost?
The course fee is £575. This includes:
All course materials
Unlimited entry to Jersey Zoo during the course
Certificate of attendance
Optional full board accommodation is available in our on-site hostel for £55 per person per night. Optional lunches are available for non-residents at £8 per person per day.