Undergraduate Abstract

Jake Smith
May 2001

An Examination of Habitat Management Area Discrepancies Using Global Positioning Systems and Geographical Information Systems at the Overton Wildlife Management Area, Nevada, USA

A Thesis submitted in partial satisfaction
of the requirement for the degree of

BACHELOR OF ARTS

In

Environmental Studies Program
University of Nevada Las Vegas

by

Jake Smith

Spring 2001

Thesis Adviser: Darren Divine
Environmental Studies Program
University of Nevada Las Vegas

ABSTRACT

The Overton Wildlife Management Area (OWMA) is a section of Nevada state land managed by the Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW) for multiple uses, including waterfowl, game bird, and small game hunting. Currently, NDOW uses an existing map of the area to determine the amount of huntable area within the OWMA. From this amount, along with desired hunter to area ratio for the OWMA, NDOW calculates the number of hunters to allow into the area for hunting season. OWMA officials believe the existing map of the area is spatially inaccurate and that it does not account for recent fluctuations in Lake Mead, thus rendering estimations of the total huntable area inaccurate as well.

The objective of this study was to assess discrepancies between the amount of huntable management area (bullrush, field, pond, and lake habitats) reflected on the existing map and the amount reflected on a generated map of OWMA. Utilizing recent developments in Global Positioning System (GPS) and Geographical Information System (GIS) technologies and equipment, I created a map of the OWMA with an accuracy level of less than 7 meters.

Study results indicate a greater amount of management land available- as depicted by the generated map-than previously depicted by the existing map: 38,394.36 m^2 field, 188,915.09 m^2 bullrush, and 210,431.54 m^2 pond. Based on these findings, huntable area at the OWMA was underestimated and should by reevaluated.