Automating Potential Properties Search
Alex Gerard
Beaver Creek Hydrology LLC
Lexington, KY
Identifying suitable properties for mitigation banks is often a time-consuming and tedious process, requiring extensive manual review of online listings and parcel data. To improve efficiency, we developed a Python-based workflow to automate the initial stages of property screening. The model queries Property Valuation Administrator (PVA) parcel datasets within selected counties or HUCs and filters parcels based on user-defined criteria. Current parameters include parcel size, forest cover, and perennial stream length, but the system is designed to incorporate additional variables as long as corresponding geospatial data are available.
In addition to filtering parcels, this script automatically generates map layouts for each selected property, allowing the reviewer to quickly evaluate sites and identify high-priority candidates for landowner outreach. Although the model is relatively simple, it has the potential to save significant staff time during early-stage site searches. Its flexible structure also allows for easy expansion as more complete parcel data become available or as new selection criteria are added.
This presentation will outline the development process, the rationale behind the chosen parameters, preliminary results from initial runs, and future plans to expand the tool into a custom GIS-based site selection application.
About Alex Gerard
Alex is a GIS and spatial data specialist with experience in environmental restoration and natural resource management.
He has applied his skills in GIS mapping, LiDAR data collection, and field mapping to support the planning, design, and monitoring of stream and wetland mitigation projects.
Alex’s work bridges ecology and engineering, ensuring that spatial datasets are accurate, up-to-date, and directly support field operations and project decision-making.
About Clark Chewning, PE
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