KAILUA BAY ADVISORY COUNCIL (KBAC) WATERSHED DATA BASE AND INFORMATION SYSTEM (WDBIS) STRATEGIC PLAN - Report Details

 
 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

Data Collection - The process of collecting information........................  2

            GPS................................................................ 2

            Supplemental Field Surveys Method................. 5

            Governmental Data Sources............................. 7

            Educational Data Sources................................ 9

            Other possible sources or existing literature....... 9

             DATA COLLECTION SUMMARY............ 10
 

Establish Computing, Communication, and Data Management System- Create information system to store, manage, and distribute data. ..........................................10

 

Enable Information retrieval and use. - Establish accessibility to data for use by KBAC, its contractors, educators, students, and the community.................................... 14

 
 

Data Collection - The process of collecting information.

To obtain the information needed to assess water quality, information must first be collected. There are several processes for collecting information, ranging from visual field observations to obtaining existing digital data bases from other organizations. Much of this data collection will occur using volunteers from the community, with additional data being acquired from other organizations already collecting information in the region.

KBAC requires a wide range of data types, e.g. maps, tabular statistics, and photographic images to assess the major issues or problems. The data collected to support KBAC shall be used for producing reports, presentations, and informational products. Collection methods need to be organized, well documented, and maintain a level of quality if they are to be effectively used for any study or reporting purpose.
 
 

Data Collection Methods Overview

KBAC will use the following data collection methods to create a water quality data base.

Each of the above programs are described below to identify the tasks that are to will occur to compile information for entry into the WDBIS.

1.a GPS

Method Description

Field data collection is to occur for specific sites in the KBAC watershed by the VWQMP volunteers. Based on the training provided, the volunteers shall use the GPS unit to record the site location and the other data characteristics as defined by the data elements are listed in the Data Dictionary. Sites may be selected for field investigations prior to performing the field visit. Other sites will be selected as volunteers travel along streams, drive along roads, hike trails, or from other ad-hoc site selecting basis.

The objective of the GPS data collection effort appears to be to "map" locations. Early site surveys are intended to collect more qualitative information, and to identify sites of interest. Another 3 phases are then planned to begin collecting more quantitative information.

Equipment

Global Positioning System. A single Trimble Navigation Pathfinder ProXR GPS/Beacon unit, TSC1 datalogger (waterproof) was acquired to assist the KBAC VWQMP in collecting site specific information. The GPS receiver will be used during field collection activities to create a data base that supports the identification of locations that may have or are contributing to pollutants in the watershed. The data collected will be entered into a data base of water quality information to support data use and distribution initiatives.

The equipment is justified for use with the VWQMP to improve the methods of field data collection. Use of the GPS will permit the accurate and comprehensive collection of site information and will greatly enhance the volunteers ability to collect field survey data. The GPS equipment should always be kept available for KBAC to use with the VWQMP or for any other project requiring survey level data. The system could be used by contractors in site surveys prior to construction. Upon dissolution of KBAC the equipment should then be turned over to the Windward Community college for use in on-going water quality studies and regional data collection programs. The Windward Community College (WCC) is acquiring their own GPS unit, and the KBAC equipment would expand the WCC capability to utilize students for field data collection. Detailed Specifications of the Trimble Pathfinder are listed in the WDBIS System Specifications and Configuration Diagram.

Volunteers

Eight (8) individuals have volunteered to participate in the GPS training class, along with existing KBAC consultants and other WCC faculty. Each of the volunteers will assist in performing field surveys and collecting site information, with participation by other KBAC consultants and WCC faculty is expected.

Training

Training on use of the GPS is required to ensure that proper techniques are used to collect site information. Training for volunteers occurred July 18, 1998 to July 20, 1998. Training was provided by a certified trainer from GeoInsight International. The training provided volunteers with the basic method to perform the following:

Collect geo-position data, i.e. Latitude/Longitude of site location

Enter codes for describing site characteristics

Saving the data into a file for transfer.

Downloading GPS data files to a computing system, e.g. laptop or PC.

Creating data tables from the GPS data files.

GPS Data Types and Attributes

Description of the possible types of data being collected using the GPS are listed in the Data Dictionary. The information collected by the GPS unit must be logically structured to allow easy digital coding of descriptive information. The coding schemes for type of information collected at a site help in defining the table structures and entity relationships in the central WDBIS. Data types, classification systems, and content are still under review by the VWQMP Coordinator. Field surveys may take place before a final data dictionary is defined, which would impact the programming of the GPS data logger and creation of the final data dictionary.

Potential data collection applications using the GPS

Data collection methods could be enhanced by developing specific software based applications with the GPS hardware and software. For example, a laptop could be carried along on field collection activities with other map or tabular data stored for each field site. Previous collected data could be displayed and analyzed during the field investigation. Also the GPS equipment could be directly connected to the laptop for immediate data entry and analysis against digital base maps of the site.

GPS Issues

Only 1-2 GPS units available for use at any one time.

Time frame between training and actual field surveys.

Accurate data collection, and documentation. - Need for Metadata.

Schedule for field surveys.

Trial field surveys began in mid August. Field surveys are currently planned for one year with a three year goal.

Coordinating Agency and other Organizations participating in the GPS field surveys.

The GPS field surveys shall be coordinated by Donna Ashizawa the VWQMP Coordinator. Windward Community College, other educational institutions, community organizations, and volunteers may become involved in the GPS data collection as time progresses. There is a potential for other organizations, e.g. Friends of He'eia State Park to contribute to the volunteer effort.

GPS Costs

Specific costs are listed in the WDBIS Cost Outline.

Benefits

Highly accurate data and efficient data entry method.

Ability to determine precise geographic coordinate positions of site surveys for revisits.

Ability to integrate with other computing mapping technologies.

Reduced labor costs for data entry.

Alternatives

Perform hard copy field surveys.

Deliverable

GPS Unit.

Training for 8 volunteers.

Collection of site data in digital format.

Software to download data to computer system.

Data and data base designs.

1.b Supplemental Field Surveys Method

Method Description

Similar to the GPS field surveys, additional groups of volunteers and student interns will be collecting information using paper data collection forms. These field surveys may not be collecting specific geographic coordinate positions, instead will be describe locations of field surveys. Data forms listing the data types are completed manually instead of using the GPS logger to collect information. Field survey teams record the site location and the other data characteristics as defined by the data elements described in the Data Dictionary.

These field surveys are utilized to supplement information collected in coordination with, or completely independent of the GPS data collection efforts. Significant information is being collected as part of these surveys.

Sites may be selected for field investigations prior to performing the field visit. Other sites will be selected as volunteers travel along streams, drive along roads, hike trails, or from other ad-hoc site selecting basis. A major issue with this method is the requirement for manual entry of data into the data base.

Equipment

Minimal equipment is required for the field surveys. Clipboards, pens/pencils, and reprinted data forms are probable requirements. Automobile costs and cameras are authorized for reimbursement. Any other equipment such as binoculars and insect repellent are assumed to be covered by the volunteers. Office furnishings to store survey forms, i.e. filing cabinets need to be considered.

Volunteers & Students

Field surveys by volunteers and students will supplement the GPS data collection efforts. Obviously one GPS unit can not be used by more than one person or team at a time, and it is expected that the equipment will rotate between teams to collect data on separate days. It is expected that GPS teams shall also carry notebooks to record additional information about the site surveys. Additional teams of field surveyors should be dispatched with hard copy data forms for expanding the data collection efforts

A separate effort of data collection is occurring with seven (7) student interns from the WCC. The data elements being collected by the GPS field surveys and the data types being collected by the student interns are not standardized and agreed upon by each group. As a result, redundancy in data collection efforts could be occurring with inconsistency in data definitions.

Training

Training on how to collect information using the field survey data forms is being provided using informal methods by WCC faculty, KBAC consultants and VWQMP coordinators. Details of what information to collect and how to classify visual inspections on data forms are taught. The breadth and content of these training programs should be documented.

Data Types and Attributes

Description of the types of data being collected using the field survey forms are listed in the Data Dictionary. Some classifications and coding systems are described on the data collection forms which help in defining the table structures and entity relationships in the central conceptual WDBIS data base.

Applications and Use

Alternative methods of data entry from the data forms may be possible. Entry using Internet communications is a suggested method that could reduce central data entry efforts.

Issues

Staffing for data entry of collected data.

Differences in data being collected by separate groups.

Coordination between different groups.

Training on collecting of data, and ability to quantify visual interpretations.

Coordinating Agency, Individual, and Organizations

Field survey teams are being organized by more than one individual at this time. Due to different interests in type of data to be collected by the field survey teams, different groups of volunteers and student interns are being organized to perform the surveys. There are at least two groups currently being organized; 1. The VWQMP coordinated by Donna Ashizawa, and 2. Student Interns being organized by Eugene Dashiell with assistance from WCC. There may also be other organizations performing field surveys, e.g. Friends of He'eia State Park.

Schedule

Groups have begun performing field surveys, with some student reports already being produced. Field surveys are currently planned for one year with a three year goal.

Costs

Student Stipends

Field Survey Supplies

Reimbursement Costs

Coordination activities to manage data collection efforts.

Benefits

Community Involvement

Low Cost

Comprehensive studies of site conditions.

Personal interaction with residents.

Alternatives

Use GPS Collection method only.

Use Existing Data Only.

Deliverable

A collection of field survey forms that can be compiled into reports, and entered into a computer data base to analyze and assess water quality conditions.

1.c Governmental Data Sources

Data Collection Method

Data available through existing governmental agencies will be used to assist in KBAC studies and projects. There are several Local, State, and Federal agencies that are collecting similar water quality information. The data in these agencies are quite extensive, and most likely very valuable to the efforts of the KBAC program. Ranging from water quality data collected by the United State Geological Survey to the City's Geographic Information System (GIS) data, these data bases provide much information that are useful in analyzing and assessing water quality and land use data. These data should can be used with KBAC projects and contractors to lower the costs of planning and design.

Government data is available through various media including the Internet, or existing digital government data bases on magnetic tape, or historic hard copy governmental reports. Acquisition of data would need to be coordinated, and some agreements of use may need to be established. Most data would be available for free or low cost, which creates a significant cost benefit to the project.

Age, sources, and quality of these data very widely. The use of these sources requires an individual to perform an assessment of the quality of data sources to identify currency, accuracy, and completeness of the information.

Equipment

Various equipment is required when transferring any data from one computing system to another. Equipment such as storage space is needed even when copying data from the Internet. Tape drives are required when obtaining data from magnetic tape. Other equipment including scanners and digitizers may be required when having to create digital copies of hard copy reports and data. Other office equipment may be required, e.g. filing cabinets to store magnetic tape archives and hard copy survey forms. Most of this equipment is identified, but additional equipment needs may arise during the creation of the WDBIS.

Volunteers & Student Interns

No one is identified to conduct data research and acquisition at this time, although WCC student interns and KBAC contractors have collected some reference information for their field surveys and reports. Personnel hired for managing the WDBIS could assist in coordinating additional data acquisition.

Training

Some basic computer training should be provided to understand how to download and transfer data from one computer to another. Data created from hard copy maps should require training on how to digitize maps and enter data into a GIS. This requires introductory GIS Training classes.

Data Types and Attributes

Data dictionaries can be acquired from the agencies distributing the information. All data acquired needs to be included in the data base design documentation, with its Metadata.

Applications and Use

Data transfer and "import" capabilities can be programmed into batch routines. Time will be spent copying data into WDBIS, but batch processing creates a potential for data transfers operations to be streamlined.

Issues

Varying Data formats and media types.

Copyrights.

Coordination activities.

Establishing Data Sharing Programs.

Coordinating Agency, Individual, and Organizations

KBAC needs to identify the person or organization that will be responsible for acquiring data, and in establishing necessary agreements.

Schedule

Various data sets have been acquired from some agencies. There should be more research into the data and types of information available from government.

Costs

Because of KBAC's authority, most data should be available at no cost. Some agencies may just charge the costs of reproduction. The majority of cost will be in equipment, and personnel to perform the data down loads.

Benefits

Extensive data bases and low/no cost.

Information will supplement and provide a base for field survey data

Enhance data contents and lower costs of project studies.

Comprehensive, accurate, and large scale details.

Alternatives

Rely on field survey data only, or purchase of commercial data.

Deliverable

A data base of governmental information in the WDBIS.

1.d Educational Data Sources

Similar to Government data, many educational institutions are collecting information pertaining to Kailua Bay, and its watershed. The Windward Community College is involved in several programs that performed regional water quality studies. Other programs such the Hawaii Stream Research Center have been involved in similar studies. Internet web sites like http://www2.hawaii.edu/hsrc/home/ provides similar data needed by KBAC. Several shoreline studies are being performed by different State University programs. The types and availability of these data sources will be further researched in subsequent drafts of the report.

1.e Other possible sources or existing literature

There appear to be other sources of collateral information for use with existing data collection efforts, and for reference by the WDBIS. Images, tape recordings, songs, additional reference literature, and Internet web pages are examples of additional data that could be added to this project.

It is recommended that KBAC and its consultants try to use as much supplemental data (including government, educational, and others) sources to augment the projects being funded by the program. Historic information is invaluable in programs such as stream restoration projects, especially in determining original conditions. The primary issue is, who will do the research.

1.f DATA COLLECTION SUMMARY

The importance of data collection much be stressed as a critical factor in the creation of the WDBIS. There is recognition that comprehensive and accurate data collection is required. However, quality control standards for the acquisition of these data needs greater focus, with a standardization of data collection efforts and a defined data tables. Metadata (information about data) documentation is essential, and is a Federal requirement of any governmental data collection program.

KBAC's ability to justify actions may require the publication of information and data. Criticisms of data quality are possible if there is not appropriate documentation of methodologies, survey forms, and data base design standards. Data collection efforts may be wasted if data base designs are not defined prior to the field surveys.
 
 

Establish Computing, Communication, and Data Management System- Create information system to store, manage, and distribute data.

The objective is very basic: INSTALL a computer system, and CREATE files to manage the information. However, the ability to create such an information resource can be very complex. The use of available computing infrastructure to support the storage of large amounts of data is required. Based on preliminary research, the resources available from the Windward Community College provide KBAC with an excellent site to host the WDBIS.

The Windward Community College (WCC) under the direction of Joe Ciotti, Director of the Aerospace Exploration Lab is developing a program called the Hoa'aina. This program is an initiative to enhance the WCC Remote Sensing & Geographic Information System curriculum. Substantial resources are being invested to support Hoa'aina, and the program is receiving computing resources to support a wide range of astronomical, biological, and environmental studies.

KBAC is strongly recommended to utilize the facilities and the desires of the Windward Community College to host the WDBIS. Based on discussions with Joe Ciotti and Dave Krupp of the Windward Community College (WCC), and a site visit to the campus facilities, significant resources are available from WCC to accommodate the computing requirements of KBAC.

Education is the major beneficiary from KBAC's investment in WCC. KBAC assistance in establishing the WDBIS at WCC facilitates protection of the Ko'olaupoko Watershed, while enhancing the local educational facilities.

Configuration Overview

It is recommended that additional server be purchased to allow the WCC to provide Internet access to the water quality and related data being collected in support of the KBAC initiatives. The result of installing such a system would create the foundation for building a Internet based library of water quality data.

With the expected volume of data to be stored, and the additional requirement that the data collected by the GPS and field surveys be accessible as down loads through the Internet and the local network, a high speed server with extensive hard dive and RAM memory is vital. The requested server needs to be readily available to the local client computers already installed in the WCC computing lab. The server most also be readily available to allow downloads of large data files via the Internet, and possibly to interactively view the ArcView shape files. The server is also required to perform back up of the WDBIS data base, and to manage the licenses used to operate the GIS, GPS< and image processing tasks.

This system would consist of a Windows NT computing system using a Dell Pentium server. Four (4) NT workstations are already installed at WCC, and KBAC could provide a Dell PowerEdge Computer Server to these work stations. ArcView and Arc/Info software for Windows NT is already installed on the WCC system. KBAC would need to acquire Internet mapping software for Internet capabilities. A network switch is also being purchased to allow connectivity of the server to the entire WCC computer lab, and to the Internet.

Equipment

See System Specifications for a complete equipment listing and specification sheet.

Other equipment may be required to accept data acquired from other agencies or hard copy. A scanner and digitizer may be required to allow delivery and entry of data into the WDBIS. Printers and plotters are already available at WCC.

Other computing equipment is being suggested to be installed in other geographic locations throughout the Kailua Bay communities. Proposals for installing computing equipment in areas like the Waimanalo Community Center would enable community residents to access the WDBIS using Internet technology. Dropping PC prices are helping in making this alternative truly feasible.

Software is a critical component for creating a usable information system. Current software products available at WCC, i.e. ArcView and Arc/Info already facilitate the development of GIS data bases. Other tabular data files can be stored with existing WCC programs, but with the acquisition of a Windows NT server it is recommended that SQL Server for Windows NT with a 5 user license be purchased and installed. An alternative being researched in a product call EQWin, which is a data base "program" designed to accommodate the collection and analysis of water quality information. This product could be considered if significant quantities of data are collected, and if there is a need for the programming of advanced data analysis.

Personnel Resources

This is the biggest issue relating to the implementation of the WDBIS. The actual creation of the data bases, the importing of acquired data, and the setup of the computing system requires substantial labor. Support for performing required computing operations can not be performed by WCC students or volunteers. Stipends or contracts with private businesses may need to be allotted to support the WDBIS management and operations.

To address this issue, it is recommended that KBAC take two (2) approaches in resolving this issue.

Hire contract services on a short term basis to create the WDBIS data base, and to establish an initial KBAC web page.

Provide funding to WCC for the hiring of a Computer Specialist III to manage and enhance the WDBIS and KBAC Web page for a long term duration.

Training

Some software and hardware training is necessary for the individual maintaining the WDBIS, unless it is a contract hire. Minimum training requirements for WDBIS systems manager includes 1) Windows NT Administration and 2) Supporting Windows NT Core Technologies.

Data Types and Attributes

A WDBIS physical data base design should be established during the early stages of the data collection efforts. Redesign and modifications to data tables are not easy, and create substantial work efforts. The Data Dictionary should be used for review by KBAC coordinators and agreed upon before creating a substantial portion of the data base.

GIS data adds much value to the WDBIS, and available data sources and structures will create a library of geographic data. These data can other augment data collection, analysis, and publication projects.

Applications and Use

Potential use of the WDBIS is enormous, and include the following basic functions

The entry and storage of collected data.

Data analysis to assess and determine water quality problems and their locations.

Production of reports, maps, and publications for public presentations.

Data distribution to KBAC consultants and contractors for use with specific projects.

The hosting of a KBAC web page for presenting water quality issues and activities to the public.

Specific applications may be determined as the WDBIS becomes operational.

Issues

The issue of personnel resources to perform the work required to create the WDBIS is going to influence the costs and management of the project. Issues relating to the maintenance of how the WDBIS be managed over a long period of time, especially after KBAC ceases to exist, need to be fully discussed.

Coordinating Agency, Individual, and Organizations

WCC shall be the primary coordinator of the installation of the WDBIS. Additional personnel resources are required not only to install the equipment but to also configure the software for entry of data. Issues of whom will manage the installation is again an issue.

Schedule

The procurement of the hardware and software necessary to create WDBIS could begin prior to the establishment of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between KBAC and WCC. The procurement of contract services to create the WDBIS could also proceed prior to establishing the MOA. Otherwise, the schedule is impacted by the time frame to create the MOA. Once the MOA is established, personnel can be hired to manage the WDBIS.

Costs

Costs are listed in the Cost Outline.

Benefits

The creation of a library of water quality related information that support the goals and objectives of KBAC. The information can be used by other researchers, students, contractors, and governmental agencies to understand the issues affecting the Ko'olaupoko watershed. Reduced costs for computing equipment are achieved since much of the required computing infrastructure is already available at WCC.

Alternatives

Use other educational facilities or institutions to host the WDBIS. KBAC could contract for the services to be provided by a private computer business or Internet Service Provider (ISP).

Also, KBAC could decide not create WDBIS and rely on individual reports for information presentation and justification, while depending on other organizations to support the management of relevant data bases.

Deliverable

An installed computing and communication system that permits data collection, storage, maintenance, and distribution.
 
 

Enable Information retrieval and use. - Establish accessibility to data for use by KBAC, its contractors, educators, students, and the community.

This objective is to provide data access to all of the information being collected and used for achieving KBAC initiatives. The use of Internet technology is the key to making the information about the Ko'olaupoko watershed available. The Internet is a logical method for communicating the goals, plans, and decisions being made by KBAC. Through the Internet KBAC can promote public awareness and involvement to a broad range of individuals and organizations.

It is highly recommended that KBAC pursue the use of an Internet Web Page to publish its findings, data, and reports; and to use the web page as a mechanism to promote community involvement in solving water quality problems in the region.

Internet Concept

With the advancement of the Internet, information is becoming increasingly easier to locate and distribute. Several layers of Internet technology could be used with the WDBIS to enhance the methods of data collection, report production, and information publications. The KBAC web page would be managed under the guidance of the WCC faculty, with KBAC funded personnel support.

Initially, KBAC should pursue the use of the Internet as a medium to promote it's activities and to report on it's findings. The creation of the WDBIS Strategic Plan report on the Internet at www.pixi.com/~kschmidt/kbac.htm is an example of capabilities for publishing reports that are easily accessible. Data collected by KBAC contractors can also easily be placed on the web for downloads by interested parties.

Future enhancement would to enable mapping capabilities and data reporting from the web page. With the acquisition of the recommended software, the KBAC web page could provide easy viewing of GIS data and the creation of statistical reports from the WDBIS. Data distribution could also be improved through enhanced web page programming.

With the creation of the WDBIS at WCC, there are extra tasks that need to occur to enable the system to become Internet ready. These tasks require a good education on Internet technology and will require assistance from WCC Media Services. The acquisition of additional software and training are required to allow the WDBIS to connect globally.

Equipment

The primary equipment will have already been purchased for the installation of the WDBIS at WCC. Additionally, this equipment requires the Environmental Systems Research Institute (ESRI) MapObjects Internet Map Server (IMS) software to allow for GIS data viewing and distribution. This software is recommended because it is integrated and compatible with the other ESRI products already in use at the WCC.

Other software products could include the ESRI ArcExplorer Software to view shape files stored on the web server. ArcExplorer is free, which makes it a very attractive alternative. However to allow for shape file viewing on the web server, MapObjects IMS must be installed.

To enhance public participation, it is recommended that KBAC purchase 5 additional PCs to be placed in key community organizations or locations for access and use with the WDBIS. Drops in computer costs enhance the practicality of this recommendation. The equipment would be a vital educational tool for the community, and could provide a mechanism for communicating ideas on watershed issues and to perform remote data entry.

Personnel

Resources to implement, manage, and modify the KBAC Web page should be contracted out until a position is filled at WCC. Once a full-time position is acquired, then training will be necessary to educate them on Web management techniques and MapObjects administration.

Training

Internet based training should be provided, but it is expected that WCC faculty can provide the training to manage simple web pages. Advanced MapObjects implementation requires a MapObjects training course, as listed in the Cost Outline. Some additional costs for training could be required in the future if advanced web page publishing, statistical reporting, and data distribution is required.

Training for community leaders on using the Internet would be helpful. This training should be performed by a volunteer or student intern.

Data Types and Attributes

An Internet GIS could be established using ArcView shape files that are viewed using the ArcExplorer software. Advanced GIS queries would require additional software programming to directly access the WDBIS data base tables.

Applications and Use

Public presentations could be conducted using the KBAC Web page. Statical reporting and map production could occur using the web page, with the potential to have remote data entry.

Issues

The primary issue is personnel resources to create and manage the web page.

Coordinating Agency, Individual, and Organizations

WCC would be the coordinating agency, with the involvement of faculty, students, volunteers, and contractors.

Schedule

Dependent on the implementation of the WCC agreement, the acquisition of equipment, and the training of personnel. The creation of the KBAC web page should not occur until the WDBIS is created as described in the previous Objective.

Costs

See Cost Outline.

Benefits

The establishment of a technology library of water quality data becomes a great educational tool for the community. Reduced costs for reporting on KBAC activities, and for distributing information are realized. Also, communication between program participant is greatly increased, with potentially improved data collection methods.

Alternatives

Utilize the WCC computing facilities exclusively for accessing, storing, and publishing watershed data. This would require all users to commute to the campus location to use the WDBIS computer equipment, and adhere to lab hours.

Deliverable

A KBAC Internet Web Page. The web page will allow KBAC to promote the objectives of the program, and to communicate it's activities. The page will permit public access to water quality data and information for distribution to contractors, businesses, organizations, and the public.

SUMMARY

The WDBIS is an informational resource coordinated by the WCC to acquire information pertaining to the water quality conditions and issues. The system requires a significant amount of funding to ensure it is managed and operated in a manner that allows the information being compiled to be useful and to perpetuate over time. Internet technology provides a low cost, highly visual impact of information to promote the goals and objectives of the KBAC program, while expanding community involvement and interest.

Total costs for the project are identified, and are not considered significant. Costs could fluctuate, yet the budget amounts should not change much from the current outline. The cost benefits derived from the information when used to support restoration or other KBAC projects could totally offset the costs of the systems creation.

The educational benefit of the information system is expected to be significant, especially using the WCC as the coordinating organization. The next steps in establishing the WDBIS include:

Establish a WCC Memorandum Of Agreement

Initiate Hardware Procurement

Initiate Software Procurement

Hire a contractor on a short term basis to create data base and web page.

Perform Data Entry of GPS and field survey data.

Hire WCC position to manage and maintain data base and web page.

Procure additional equipment for community locations.

Once completed, the WDBIS can be identified as a significant contribution of the KBAC members. Regardless of the life span of KBAC, the WDBIS will most likely continue on in perpetuity like all important reference materials. The collection of information which describes the characteristics, conditions, and problems of the Ko'olaupoko watershed shall not only continue to educate the local residents, but will also provide a revolutionary new tool for the community to communicate.