GIS Analysis & Modeling

Knowing “where” in biodiversity conservation is as important as knowing “what.” CNHP uses GIS (Geographic Information Systems) software along with other tools and methods for analyzing and displaying spatial data. Our work facilitates the identification of important biodiversity areas , threat and mitigation analysis, predictive models of species distributions, and the ecological effects of climate change .

Featured Topics

Dudley Bluffs bladderpod (Physaria congesta) by Jill Handwerk
Dudley Bluffs bladderpod (Physaria congesta) by Jill Handwerk

Species Distribution Modeling

CNHP has used a variety of modeling algorithms to produce predictive distribution models, or models of suitable habitat for dozens of plant and animal species, as well as for major ecosystem types in Colorado.

Species distribution modeling - Learn more
Treeline mapping and monitoring
Treeline mapping and monitoring

Treeline Monitoring in the San Juan Mountains

As part of efforts to track the effects of warming temperatures for tree growth at high elevations, CNHP used historic and recent aerial photos to map and analyze change in treeline level over a 60-year period between 1951 and 2011.

Treeline monitoring in the San Juan Mountains - Learn more
The State of Colorado's Biodiversity Cover Photo
The State of Colorado's Biodiversity Cover

Measuring Success

CNHP, in partnership with The Nature Conservancy, has developed a prototype analysis of the status of Colorado’s biodiversity, using a “scorecard” approach. We evaluated ecological systems, animals, and rare plants to determine the effectiveness of current conservation. GIS analysis was used extensively in evaluating the health, threats to, and protection levels of Colorado’s rare plants, animals and ecosystems.

The State of Colorado's Biodiversity - Learn more
High Park Fire above Grey Rock by Michael Menefee.
High Park Fire above Grey Rock by Michael Menefee.

Climate Change Vulnerability Assessments

CNHP has evaluated vulnerability to climate change for ecosystems, animals, and rare plants of concern to help partners understand the risks posed to Colorado's biodiversity by climate change.

Climate Change Vulnerability Assessments - Learn more
Rural highway in eastern Colorado by Michael Menefee.
Rural highway in eastern Colorado by Michael Menefee.

Transportation Planning

CNHP has helped to develop GIS-based methods and tools for improving impact assessments and advance mitigation planning in the context of long-range transportation planning.

Transportation Planning - Learn more