State Department of Transportation Vegetation Inventory Protocol Project

Maddox, V. L., Abbott, C. F., Byrd, J., & Thompson, D. (2009). State Department of Transportation Vegetation Inventory Protocol Project. 12th AASHTO-TRB Maintenance Management Conference. Loews Annapolis Hotel, Annapolis, MD.

In 2008, a review of current Midsouth Department of Transportation (DOT) technologies, including cell phones with Global Positioning System (GPS) and/or camera capabilities, GPS units, and geographic information system (GIS) technology, was conducted to determine potential needs and compatibilities with newer software, databases, and other technologies available. A review of literature was also conducted to determine what technologies were most applicable for DOT. An investigation of WIMS (Weed Information Management System) developed by The Nature Conservancy, NAWMA (North American Weed Management Association) data fields, and the IPAMS (Invasive Plant Atlas of the MidSouth) database was conducted to determine how each is applicable in achieving DOT system goals. Various technologies, including GPS equipment and software, were acquired for field testing to determine compatibility with DOT applications. The development of a user training manual was initiated, based upon information gathered during the study, to assist DOT personnel with utilization of field equipment, form completion, download methodology, software, and database applications.