First step is to conduct a Mapathon using TeachOSM to create a task focused on tree mapping in the given area. The Mapathon will involve volunteers adding visible tree features from satellite imagery, while the field mapping using MapComplete will follow as a second step to complete attributes such as type of leaves, tree species height, and more. This two-step approach ensures that the map data is comprehensive and accurate.
Process of the First step of the Exercise :
Task Creation: Create a new task on TeachOSM focused on tree mapping in the selected area. Define the boundaries of the mapping area, set the task's objective, and provide clear instructions for participants on how to identify and map trees using satellite imagery.
Training and Preparation: Provide participants with training on how to use the TeachOSM platform and its tools to add tree features to OpenStreetMap. Ensure that volunteers are familiar with the mapping process and the specific requirements of the tree mapping task.
Conduct the Mapathon: Organize a Mapathon event, either in-person or virtual, where volunteers can work together to map tree features within the selected area. Encourage participants to communicate and collaborate throughout the event to ensure the best possible results.
Data Validation: Review the mapped data from the Mapathon to ensure its accuracy and completeness. Make any necessary corrections or additions before proceeding with the field mapping using MapComplete.
Ready for Field Mapping
By combining a Mapathon using TeachOSM with field mapping using MapComplete, you can create a detailed and accurate map of tree distribution in a given area, helping to better understand their role in mitigating climate risks and informing urban planning and climate adaptation strategies.
This exercise aims to equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary for detailed mapping using OpenStreetMap and smartphone app. In the following sections, we will explore the steps and guidelines for conducting the field mapping.
Clearly state the issue or challenge that needs to be addressed through field mapping. This could be a lack of data, inaccurate information, or any other problem that can be resolved through the collection of geospatial data.
Example: The distribution of trees within the selected area is not well-documented, and their role in mitigating climate risks is not well-understood.
Describe the importance of addressing the identified problem and how it impacts the community, environment, or any other relevant stakeholders.
Example: Understanding the distribution of trees and their role in mitigating climate risks can inform urban planning and climate adaptation strategies, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable and resilient community.
Clearly outline the goals of the field mapping project, specifying what data needs to be collected and what questions the project aims to answer.
Example: The objective of this field mapping project is to map the distribution of trees within a selected area and collect data on their attributes (e.g., species, height, age, health status) to better understand their role in addressing local climate risks.
Provide an overview of the methods and tools that will be used to collect data in the field, including any specific techniques or technologies that will be employed.
Example: Mappers will combine Mapathon for rapid collection of the visible data and use MapComplete on their smartphones or tablets to collect additional attributes about trees. They will also can take images for validation purposes.
Explain the anticipated results of the field mapping project, including any insights or discoveries that may be made as a result of the data collection.
Example: The expected outcomes of this project include a comprehensive map of the distribution of trees within the selected area, as well as insights into the role of trees in mitigating climate risks such as urban heat islands, humidity retention, and shadowing.
By following this methodological template, mappers can create a well-structured problem statement that clearly defines the purpose and objectives of their mapping (field) project, ensuring that their efforts are focused and impactful.
The good preparation process is important. We offer the tags (key=value) which could be added are listed in the table below.
| Key | Value | Description | Wiki Link |
|---|---|---|---|
natural
tree
Identifies a single tree
leaf_type
broadleaved/needleleaved
The type of leaf for the tree
species
Scientific name
The scientific name of the tree species
circumference
Circumference in cm
The circumference of the tree trunk at breast height
height
Height in meters
The height of the tree
denotation
Urban/Avenue/Agriculture/Park/Street/Landmark/Garden
Denotation of the location
leaf_cycle
evergreen/deciduous/mixed/
Describes the phenology of leaves, for instance evergreen or deciduous
diameter_crown
Diameter in meters
The diameter of the tree's crown
genus
Genus name
The genus of the tree
tree:age
Age in years
The estimated age of the tree
After completing the Mapathon, we use MapComplete to conduct field mapping, focusing on collecting additional tree attributes such as height, type of leaves, and tree species. This step complements the data gathered during the Mapathon, ensuring a comprehensive and accurate representation of the tree distribution in the selected area.
Process of the Second step of the Exercise
Introduction to MapComplete: Participants are to be introduced to the MapComplete platform. The platform's purpose, features, and its use in creating custom map themes for specific mapping projects should be explained.
Training and Demonstration: A tutorial on using MapComplete to add, edit, and tag trees with the custom theme should be provided to participants. The key features of the platform, such as searching for specific map elements, adding photos, and using the editing interface, should be highlighted.
Field Mapping: Participants are to be instructed to venture into the selected area and begin mapping trees using MapComplete on their smartphones or tablets. The collection of as much information as possible about the trees, including species, height, and other relevant attributes, should be encouraged.
Data Validation and Integration: Upon completion of the field mapping, participants are to be guided through the process of validating their collected data and integrating it into the OpenStreetMap database. The importance of ensuring data accuracy and adherence to OSM guidelines should be emphasized.
Analysis and Discussion: Following the exercise, the mapped data should be analyzed to gain insights into the distribution of trees within the selected area and their role in mitigating climate risks. Participants should be encouraged to discuss their findings and share their experiences using MapComplete.
By using the MapComplete platform to carry out this tree mapping exercise, participants will not only gain valuable experience with a user-friendly mapping tool but also contribute to a better understanding of the role of trees in addressing local climate risks.
MapComplete is a user-friendly platform designed to make contributing to OpenStreetMap more accessible and enjoyable. It allows users to create custom map themes and offers easy-to-use tools for adding and editing map features. We will provide the step-by-step manual on how to work with MapComplete in your smartphone.
Fig 6: Open the URL https://mapcomplete.osm.be/.
Fig 7: Log in to the OSM platform. This is important because, without an OSM login, you cannot add any feature. Then click on the "Open the map" icon.
Fig 8: Look around the interface. The main navigation tools are located at the bottom of the screen. At the bottom right, you will see the quick switcher (1) between the OSM map and the Satellite map (note: the source of the satellite map is rendered based on your mapping location). Above it is the "Select layers" icon (2), where you can define a specific background layer for a purpose, for example, if you want to see the cyclopaths tracks. You can also go back to the themes browser here. The "Positions" icon (3) finds your location based on your smartphone's GPS signal. There are zoom in and zoom out icons (4). With the "?" icon (5), you can open the theme options, where you can find a description of the topic, create your own topic, and share the map with colleagues.
Fig 9: Click on the tree near "Click here to add a new item" to add a new tree that is missing.
Fig 10: Click on an existing tree object and edit the tags.
Fig 11: Leaf type (key: leaf_type).
Fig 12: Adjust the position if needed.
Fig 13: What species is this tree? (key: species).
Fig 14: What is the circumference? (key: circumference).
Fig 15: What is the height of this tree? (key: height).
Fig 16: How significant is this tree? (key: denotation).
Fig 17: You can now check all the attributes you have added.
Fig 18: In case you did the test mapping, you can delete the feature.
