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This shapefile denotes the location of underwater photos and videos taken at ground validation (GV) and accuracy assessment (AA) sites surveyed around Vieques. The purpose of the GV survey data was to investigate areas of imagery where uncertainties existed on the photo interpreter's behalf during the decision making process of benthic habitat classification in Vieques. This information was used to refine the benthic habitat map. The purpose of this AA data was to collect information on current habitat conditions at random locations throughout the mapping area. Locations were determined by an iterative, GIS-based, stratified random sampling technique to ensure that all bottom classifications would be assessed. This information was used to evaluate the thematic accuracy of the Vieques benthic habitat map.
The points in this thematic data layers were acquired by GPS data using a Trimble GeoXT receiver with a customized data dictionary designed to reflect the habitat classification scheme. Underwater video or still images were collected at each site to maintain a record of habitat condition. This video was initially classified in the field and reviewed by NOAA staff in the office to ensure correct habitat attribution was made in the field. |