A Dynamic GIS as an Efficient Tool for Integrated Coastal Zone Management

Françoise Gourmelon,Guy Fontenelle,Damien Le Guyader

doi:10.3390/ijgi3020391

Abstract

This contribution addresses both the role of geographical information in participatory research of coastal zones, and its potential to bridge the gap between research and coastal zone management. Over a one year period, heterogeneous data (spatial, temporal, qualitative and quantitative) were obtained which included the process of interviews, storing in a spatio-temporal database. The GIS (Geographic Information System) produced temporal snapshots of daily human activity patterns allowing it to map, identify and quantify potential space-time conflicts between activities. It was furthermore used to facilitate the exchange of ideas and knowledge at various levels: by mapping, simulation, GIS analysis and data collection. Results indicated that both captured data and the participatory workshop added real value to management and therefore it was deemed well managed by stakeholders. To incorporate a dynamic GIS would enhance pro-active integrated management by opening the path for better discussions whilst permitting management simulated scenarios.

Highlights

Many diverse activities exist along coastal seas [1] playing an essential role in human society [2].Yet, they quite often result in conflicting interactions [3] and present an ongoing challenge for both society and research [4,5]
At various stages throughout the study, a range of geographic information technologies had been used: (i) areas of maritime activities were directly mapped by stakeholders, using a GIS-based interview procedure; (ii) temporal data were linked with area to provide a model of interactions between activities at different dates; (iii) this dynamic GIS was employed to produce a range of maps including spatial or spatio-temporal components on various human activities; (iv) these maps helped facilitate the proposal of spatial simulation based on scenarios
The participatory workshop consisted of representatives from local commercial fisheries and five local agencies interested in coastal management; including several whom represented the Natura 2000 and Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM)

Summary

Introduction

Many diverse activities exist along coastal seas [1] playing an essential role in human society [2]. They quite often result in conflicting interactions [3] and present an ongoing challenge for both society and research [4,5]. Pittman et al [6] identified priority needs to describe spatio-temporal distribution of activities and to better examine existing or potential conflicts. Studies considering small spatial scales relevant to local marine planning, by example conducted by Le Tixerant et al [12] in Iroise Sea (France) or by Longdill et al [13] in the Bay of Plenty (New Zealand), still remain scarce. The temporal dynamics were not considered in these approaches

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Conclusion