Managing Environmental Data: Principles, Techniques, and Best Practices

Focused on the mechanics of managing environmental data, this book provides guidelines on how to evaluate data requirements, assess tools and techniques, and implement an effective system. Moving beyond the hypothetical, Gerald Burnette illustrates the decision-making processes and the compromises required when applying environmental principles and practices to actual data.

Managing Environmental Data explains the basic principles of relational databases, discusses database design, explores user interface options, and examines the process of implementation. Best practices are identified during each portion of the process. The discussion is summarized via the development of a hypothetical environmental data management system. Details of the design help establish a common framework that bridges the gap between data managers, users, and software developers.

It is an ideal text for environmental professionals and students. The growth in both volume and complexity of environmental data presents challenges to environmental professionals. Developing better data management skills offers an excellent opportunity to meet these challenges. Gaining knowledge of and experience with data management best practices complements students’ more traditional science education, providing them with the skills required to address complex data requirements.

Gerald Burnette is a Senior Project Manager with Civil and Environmental

Consultants, Inc. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics (with a minor

in Physics) from Maryville College in 1983. He has over 35 years experience in

developing analytical and management applications related to land, ecosystem, and

natural resources issues. He specializes in developing complex database management

systems, including desktop and web interfaces. In addition to performing these services

for numerous private clients, he has a long history of working for numerous

state, local, and federal government clients. Notable examples include the US Army

Corps of Engineers, the US Department of Energy, and NASA.