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Data Preparation

The Data Preparation section of the NWCG GISS Workflow lays the groundwork for the rest of the incident.

Follow the NWCG Standards for Geospatial Operations (GeoOps), PMS 936 for structure and organization for consistency.

Never skip steps in the Data Preparation section to save time during the often-chaotic incident ramp up, it will only require more effort in the long term.

GISS Workflow Diagram: Data Preparation

Data Preparation – Do Once

  1. Gather incident information - Name, Unique Fire ID (Unit ID + Local Incident Number), IRWINID, etc.
  2. Implement the GeoOps incident directory structure. Download the zip folder, extract the YYYY_Template folder, and rename for incident.
  3. Populate the base_data folder with data relevant to the fire area.
  4. Configure the Pro Project Template
    1. Rename project databases
    2. Rename map view with incident name and set local projected coordinate system.
    3. Repair path of Dynamic Text Update table to other_incident_data.gdb.
  5. Save as on the Pro Project Template to create the Edit Project. Name per GeoOps standards {map type} = “edit”.
    1. Ensure you are signed into the NIFC AGOL as your active portal.
    2. Optionally, add a vector tile layer basemap to map.
    3. Create an Offline Copy.
      1. Add the hosted National Incident Feature Service (NIFS).
      2. Zoom to incident area of interest (AOI).
      3. Select Download Map to create an Offline Copy. Optionally, download a vtpk of the vector tile layer simultaneously.
    4. Repair path of Event Layers to Offline Copy and remove duplicate service from map.
    5. Configure Feature Templates.
    6. Save a group layer file for Event Features in the incident_data/edit folder and include your name.
  6. Create and Share Web Maps for mobile data collection and information sharing.
Image
GISS Workflow Diagram: Data Preparation

Figure 1. GISS Workflow Diagram: Data Preparation
(click image to enlarge)

 

Job Aids

YouTube Playlist: Data Preparation

 

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Updated! L-280, Followership to Leadership (Instructor-led) Course

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NWCG is pleased to announce the updated L-280, Followership to Leadership (Instructor-led) course is now available. L-280 is intended for operational personnel at the Firefighter Type 1 level, and for individuals pursuing Leadership Level 2, New Leader. 

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