SEAM

Strategic Ecosystem Area Method (SEAM)

SEAM is a multi-faceted land resource analysis methodology developed by EC&D.  SEAM utilizes GIS spatial modeling technology and field observations to identify regions within a study area that should be preserved, and which are more suited for development.  EC&D developed SEAM to address the needs of clientele faced with challenging design issues because of the presence of regulated natural resources.  The process of SEAM involves identifying potential ecological hotspots by completing a desktop GIS suitability analysis.   EC&D Environmental Scientists then ground truth representative vegetation communities and rate them based on ecological condition and function.   This combined analysis results in the identification of the highest ecologically significant areas within a study area.  Special attention is given to connectivity to preserve both animal movement and hydrological systems.  SEAM is suited to larger scale projects requiring implementation of design alternatives to maintain environmentally sensitive areas.

SEAM Output                                       

                                                                     Weighted Suitability Model