C-MAP

C-MAP is an assessment tool developed by the Clean Air Markets Division (CAMD) to better understand and characterize the effectiveness of environmental programs such as the Acid Rain Program. The primary goal behind the development of a GIS was to gain a thorough understanding of the impacts of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides emission reductions to the environment. The decision to implement a GIS stemmed from a need to better understand the implications of answers to policy questions regarding acid rain control, and therefore to improve the decision-making process. The extensive GIS database, available for download, enables users to visually integrate various emissions and effects data in map format, using their own GIS software. Sample maps illustrating current trends and policy issues of interest are displayed in the map gallery for viewing and download. GIS is helping in the assessment of whether current control levels provide adequate protection of human health and the environment. CAMD is using GIS to explore spatial patterns and analyze regional trends in air quality, visibility, surface water quality, acid deposition and forest health, as related to emission levels: Display and compare trends in environmental indicators (for example, acid deposition, surface water chemistry, ambient air concentrations) at national or regional scales; Display such trends in environmental indicators overlaid with trends in emissions; Display trends at different annual time scales (for example over 1-, 5-, or 10-year periods), or design annual vs. seasonal comparisons; Mark progress toward environmental goals.