Technical Considerations for Use of Geospatial Data in Sea Level Change Mapping and Assessment.

Abstract

This document is intended to provide technical guidance to agencies, practitioners, and coastal decision - makers seeking to use and/or collect geospatial data to assist with sea level change assessments and mapping products. There is a lot of information available today regarding sea level change and navigating this information can be challenging. This document seeks to clarify existing data and information and provide guidance on how to understand and apply this information to analysis and planning applications by directing readers to specific resources for various applications. There is no single approach to sea level change mapping and assessment. The specific data and information requirements of any user are unique depending on their application, location, and need. It is important to understand what to look for and what questions to ask when applying existing information or collecting new data. The discussion in this document is structured around four key questions to address the required technical considerations: What is sea level change and how is it measured? What are the considerations for sea level applications with respect to data standards? How can users understand and apply geospatial data and information to support sea level rise mapping and assessment and aid in coastal decision making? What are the limitations and gaps with respect to sea level measurement, and what are the implications of those gaps? The document is divided into eight distinct chapters to assist readers in quickly locating the most relevant information:The Introduction and General Information chapters pose the key questions to ask when approaching mapping/analysis amidst sea level change, and provide background information on past and projected sea level trends.