Skip to main content

Map Elements

Purpose

Maps are the primary tools by which spatial relationships and geographic data are visualized. The use of standard map elements provides critical information to facilitate the fast and consistent interpretation of map products and ensures that the most appropriate and current map is used. In the interest of encouraging safety, consistency, and accuracy, PMS-936 describes the map elements that everyone should use when creating maps.

Specifications

All map products should include:

Map elements graph described belowSTANDL (Scale, Title, Author, North arrow, Date and time of preparation, Legend) cartographic elements:

  • Scale (1): A graphical expression of a fixed distance, such as 1,000 feet or 1 mile. A textual description, such as 1:24,000 or 1” = 1 mile is useful if the map is printed at the desired output size; however, because digital maps (such as PDFs) can be printed at various sizes, it is preferable to use a graphical scale bar.
  • Title (2): The basic description of the map, including items such as incident name and map type. The Unit Identifier and the Local Incident Identifier are included (e.g., ID-BOF-0095). For certain maps, the title must also include the operation date and/or period for which the map was produced.
  • Author (3): The person or group that prepared the map.
  • North arrow (4): The graphical display used to orient the map correctly. This element could also include additional direction indicators for magnetic declination or grid angle.
  • Date of preparation (5): Including the date and time the map was produced informs the map user of the currency of the information displayed on the map.
  • Legend (6): The key that describes the meaning of the symbols found on the map.

SGD (Source statement, Graticule/grid, Datum) map elements should be on the Incident Action Plan (IAP) map, and are recommended for use on other maps, as appropriate.

  • Source statement (7): Date and time that key map elements (e.g., fire perimeter) were collected. Other citations for data and/or features on a map may be included, such as source, collection method, accuracy, and coordinate system/projection.
  • Graticule/grid (8): This element is typically a graticule of latitude and longitude marks and numbers that allows referencing of the mapped area to the specific area on the Earth. 
  • Datum (9): The datum must be noted on the map when a graticule/grid is used or if coordinates are displayed. The correct datum is critical for GPS use.

References

Responsibilities

The Geospatial Information System Specialist (GISS) creates map products that include legible STANDL-SGD map elements to ensure maps are accurate and readable for the end user. The Situation Unit Leader (SITL) ensures that each individual map product includes the required STANDL-SGD map elements.

 

Last Modified / Reviewed:

Print PDF

NWCG Latest Announcements

NEW! Incident Performance and Training Modernization Story Map Now Available

Date: Aug 26, 2025
Questions? Please contact:
National Wildfire Coordinating Group

NWCG is excited to announce the launch of the Incident Performance and Training Modernization (IPTM) Story Map, a new interactive resource that showcases how NWCG is transforming wildland fire training and qualifications through a performance-based system.

Since its launch in 2023, IPTM has made major strides in updating how we manage incident positions:

  • 36 incident positions now have new Incident Position Standards and Next Generation Position Task Books available for field use
  • 6 more incident positions are nearing completion
  • 111 total incident positions are being analyzed through the IPTM initiative

The Story Map guides you through the IPTM process, highlights key accomplishments, and outlines what’s ahead. Whether you are a trainer or a trainee, this tool offers valuable insight into the modernization effort shaping the future of wildland fire training and qualifications.

This effort would not be possible without the contributions of NWCG staff, NWCG committees, and hundreds of subject matter experts across the wildland fire community.

References:

IPTM Story Map

Incident Performance and Training Modernization Webpage

NEW! S-290, Intermediate Wildland Fire Behavior (Blended) Available Now

Date: Aug 15, 2025
Questions? Please contact:
Fire Behavior Subcommittee

NWCG is excited to announce that the S-290, Intermediate Wildland Fire Behavior (Blended) training is now available on the Wildland Fire Learning Portal. S-290 (Blended) training combines online training and instructor-led training components that support individuals working towards any Single Resource Boss or Fire Effects Monitor incident qualifications.

This second course in the series collectively serves to develop fire behavior prediction knowledge and skills, and provides more detailed information on fuels, weather, and topography that affect wildland fire behavior for safety purposes.

Students are required to finish the prerequisite S-190, Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior, before enrolling in S-290, Intermediate Wildland Fire Behavior (Blended).

References:

S-290, Intermediate Wildland Fire Behavior (Blended)

S-190, Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior

Wildland Fire Learning Portal

NEW! S-271, Helicopter Crewmember (Blended) Now Available

Date: Aug 14, 2025
Questions? Please contact:
Interagency Helicopter Operations Subcommittee

The S-271, Helicopter Crewmember (Blended) is now available. Developed through the Incident Performance and Training Modernization (IPTM) effort, this training supports individuals working towards Helicopter Crewmember (HECM) incident qualifications. 

S-271, Helicopter Crewmember (Blended) training combines online training and instructor-led training components. This course is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to perform the duties of the HECM position, as described in the NWCG Incident Position Standards for Helicopter Crewmember, PMS 350-22.

Any changes to qualification pathways will take effect with the next update of the NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Position Qualifications, PMS 310-1, scheduled for January 2026.

References:

S-271, Helicopter Crewmember (Blended)

NWCG Helicopter Crewmember (HECM) Position Page

Wildland Fire Learning Portal

Incident Position Standards and Next Generation Position Task Books Now Available for FBAN and LTAN

Date: Aug 13, 2025
Questions? Please contact:
Fire Behavior Subcommittee

NWCG is excited to announce that Incident Position Standards and Next Generation Position Task Books are now available for Fire Behavior Analyst (FBAN) and Long Term Fire Analyst (LTAN).

The Performance Support Packages for these positions were developed as part of the Incident Performance and Training Modernization (IPTM) effort. These resources support trainees, qualified personnel, and evaluators in their respective roles.

Any changes to qualification pathways will take effect with the next update of the NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Position Qualifications, PMS 310-1, scheduled for January 2026.

References:

NWCG Fire Behavior Analyst Position Page

NWCG Long Term Fire Analyst Page