DNR Watershed Regions (24K)

Abstract: This data set consists of regions representing watersheds as delineated by the Wisconsin DNR. The data are compiled from 1:24,000-scale topographic maps. DNR watershed delineations generally indicate areas that drain into a common river system or lake, but may also be based on DNR basin management criteria. The custodian of this data set is the DNR Bureau of Watershed Management (WT).

Purpose Description: The watershed boundary delineations in this data set are used primarily to prepare reference basemaps for the DNR Nonpoint Source Water Pollution Abatement Program, also generally known as the Priority Watershed Program. Priority watershed projects are designed to address water quality problems caused by nonpoint sources of pollution in selected watersheds. The data are intended for use with ArcView, ARC/INFO, or other GIS software which support shapefile format data.

Access Constraints: None

Use Constraints: None

Currentness Reference: Publication date of source data

Geographic Extent: Statewide

Native Data Environment: ArcView version 3.2

Maintenance Update Frequency: As needed

Progress Type: Complete

Beginning Date: 1992

Ending Date: 1999

Process Step Description: The DNR Watersheds data layer was developed cooperatively by DNRs Bureau of Watershed Management (WT) and Geographic Services Section (GEO). WT personnel delineated watershed lines onto USGS 7.5-minute (1:24,000-scale) maps by interpreting topographic and hydrologic information. Those lines were digitized, and WTs watershed codes and the major/minor drainage basin codes used by DNRs Bureau of Fisheries Management and Habitat Protection (FH) were linked to the resulting polygons. Further modifications were made to some watershed boundaries based on management criteria determined by WT. Additional tems were added, and ARC/INFO region and route feature classes created meet WT needs. The DNR Watershed polygon features shapefile was initially created from the Watershed region feature class in 1998, and was last updated in 1999 to reflect periodic updates.

Citation Information:
    Originator: Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
    Publication Date: 1990
    Title: DNR Watersheds (polygon features)
    Data Presentation Form:Vector Digital Data
    Publication Place: Madison, WI
    Publisher: Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
Contact Information:
    Contact Person: John Laedlein
    Organization: WDNR / Enterprise Data Management
    Title: GIS Data Specialist
    Hours of Service: Normal business hours, or as available
    Mailing Address:
      P.O. Box 7921, ET/8
      Madison, WI 53707-7921
    Phone: 608-264-8914
    Fax: 608-266-0870
    Email: John.Laedlein@wisconsin.gov