Kerala/Grants/HOTBoosterGrant2023/Proposal/Digitize stream network of Kabani river in Kerala state
Your project
The OpenStreetMap (OSM) project is a global initiative to create a free and editable map of the world, providing a valuable resource for urban planning, emergency response, community development, and more. In order to encourage community involvement in the OSM project, this proposal aims to host a workshop for 20 youths, teaching them how to create OSM accounts and contribute to the project. Furthermore, this project seeks to digitally map all stream networks of the Kabani River, located in the state of Kerala, from the 5th order. Through field visits and local knowledge, the streams will be named to the extent possible. To ensure the accuracy and validity of the data, all edits made by this project will be verified, generalized, and rectified with the assistance of GIS experts.
By encouraging participation in the OSM project, this initiative aims to improve local knowledge and create a free, easily accessible source of geographical data for a variety of applications. The project will have a positive impact on the local community by providing opportunities for youth engagement and promoting environmental conservation.
The project team consists of individuals with extensive field knowledge in the Kabani river basin and vast experience conducting mapping projects for government and other agencies. Their expertise in mapping and data collection, combined with their local knowledge, will be crucial to the project's success. The team is dedicated to conducting the project efficiently, accurately, and with best practices. They are committed to engaging the local community and training youth in mapping techniques to encourage their involvement in the project. Overall, the team is highly skilled, motivated, and well-equipped to successfully complete this project
Describe the local challenge your project is addressing
Challenges of this project include:
Data Verification and Accuracy: Verifying and ensuring the accuracy of the data collected by the project team can be challenging, especially when dealing with a large number of contributors. The process of verifying, generalizing, and rectifying edits with the assistance of GIS experts is time-consuming and requires careful attention to detail.
Limited Local Knowledge: While the project team has extensive field knowledge in the Kabani river basin, there may still be limitations in local knowledge when it comes to naming the streams accurately. Relying solely on field visits and local knowledge for naming the streams may present challenges in achieving complete accuracy.
Youth Engagement and Training: Engaging and training 20 youths in mapping techniques can be a logistical challenge. Ensuring effective communication, organizing the workshop, and providing adequate support and resources to the participants requires careful planning and coordination.
Sustainability and Long-Term Engagement: Sustaining community involvement and participation in the OSM project beyond the initial workshop can be a challenge. Ensuring continued engagement and motivating the youth to contribute to the project in the long term will require ongoing support, mentorship, and opportunities for growth within the OSM community.
Limited Resources: The project may face resource limitations in terms of equipment, software, and technical support. Acquiring and maintaining the necessary resources to conduct the project efficiently and accurately could pose a challenge.
Integration with Existing Data: Integrating the newly mapped stream networks with existing data and ensuring compatibility can be challenging. Coordinating with other mapping initiatives and stakeholders to avoid duplication of efforts and maintain consistency in the overall mapping project may require additional coordination and effort.
Describe your project
OBJECTIVES
1. Conduct a workshop for 20 youths to enable the OSM account and make them contribute to OSM:
• Identify the venue and date for the workshop.
• Create an agenda for the workshop that includes an introduction to OSM, hands-on training on how to use the OSM platform, and practical exercises for the participants to contribute to OSM.
• Prepare materials for the workshop, such as presentation slides, handouts, and sample data. • Invite participants to the workshop and provide them with necessary information, such as the date, time, location, and any prerequisites or requirements for attending the workshop.
2. Digitize all stream network of the Kabani river situated in Kerala state from 5th order:
• Familiarize yourself with the area and the river network by reviewing maps and satellite imagery.
• Choose the appropriate tools and software for digitizing the stream network, such as QGIS, ArcGIS, or JOSM.
• Contribute a plan for digitizing the stream network, including the extent, resolution, and accuracy requirements.
• Collect ground truth data, such as GPS points or field notes, to improve the accuracy of the digitized data.
• Digitize the stream network according to the plan and export the data in the desired format.
3. Name the streams as much as the data available in the locality with the help of field visits:
• Plan a field visit to the area to collect data on the streams, such as their names, locations, and characteristics.
• Create a survey or data collection form to record the information on the streams.
• Train your team or volunteers on how to collect the data and use the survey form.
• Conduct the field visit and collect the data on the streams.
• Match the collected data with the digitized stream network and add the names and other attributes of the stream segments.
4. Cross-check, generalize and rectify all the edits done by this project with the help of GIS experts:
• Identify GIS experts who can help with cross-checking and generalizing the data.
• Prepare the data for review by cleaning, validating, and formatting it according to standards.
• Share the data with the GIS experts and request their feedback and suggestions.
• Review the feedback and make necessary corrections and improvements to the data.
• Update the data on OSM and share the final version with the GIS experts for their approval.
This project aims to contribute approximately 1000 kilometers of river stream network, encompassing various sections such as 100 kilometers of the mainstream of Kabani in Kerala state (6km), Mananthavady Puuzha (45km), and Panamaram Puzha (49km).
Describe your sustainability plan
Sustainability Plan for the OSM Micro Grant Project:
Capacity Building and Training: Implement a comprehensive training program that equips local community members, including the participating youth, with the necessary mapping skills and knowledge to contribute to the OSM project. This will ensure the continuous involvement and capacity building of individuals, fostering a sustainable community of contributors.
Community Engagement and Collaboration: Foster an active and engaged community around the project by organizing regular meetups, workshops, and knowledge-sharing sessions. Encourage collaboration among community members, local organizations, and other stakeholders to collectively contribute to the ongoing maintenance and improvement of the mapped stream network.
Documentation and Guidelines: Develop clear and accessible documentation and guidelines for data collection, verification, and editing processes. This will enable new participants to understand and follow established best practices, ensuring the consistency and accuracy of the contributed data even as the project expands.
Feedback and Quality Assurance: Establish mechanisms to gather feedback from the community and users of the mapped data. Encourage users to report errors or suggest improvements, and develop a feedback loop to address these issues promptly. Implement a quality assurance process to regularly review and verify the data, maintaining its reliability over time.
Long-Term Partnerships: Establish partnerships with local government agencies, academic institutions, and NGOs working in the region. Collaborate with these organizations to integrate the OSM data into their projects and initiatives, ensuring the continued relevance and value of the mapped stream network for various applications.
Funding and Resources: Seek sustainable funding sources to support the project's ongoing operations, including equipment maintenance, software licenses, and community engagement activities. Explore opportunities for grants, sponsorships, or partnerships with organizations aligned with the project's goals to secure long-term financial stability.
Knowledge Transfer and Succession Planning: Develop a succession plan to ensure the continuity of the project's leadership and knowledge transfer. Identify individuals within the community who can assume key roles and responsibilities, providing mentorship and guidance to new participants. Encourage the sharing of skills and knowledge among community members to build a self-sustaining ecosystem.
The community-defined project goals for the OSM Micro Grant Project are centered around active community involvement, improving local knowledge, and creating a valuable, accessible source of geographical data. The primary objectives are as follows:
Youth Engagement and Empowerment: The project aims to actively involve 20 youths in the workshop and training sessions, equipping them with mapping skills and knowledge to contribute to the OpenStreetMap (OSM) project. By fostering their engagement and empowerment, we seek to inspire a new generation of mappers and create opportunities for their personal and professional growth.
Mapping the Kabani River Stream Network: The project aims to digitally map approximately 1000 kilometers of river stream network, including 100 kilometers of the mainstream of Kabani in Kerala state, Mananthavady Puuzha, and Panamaram Puzha. Through field visits and local knowledge, we strive to name the streams to the extent possible, improving the accuracy and completeness of the geographical data.
Community Building and Collaboration: The project seeks to foster a vibrant community of mappers and stakeholders by organizing meetups, workshops, and knowledge-sharing sessions. We aim to build strong relationships with local organizations, government agencies, and academic institutions to encourage collaboration and ensure the longevity of the project's impact.
Definition of Project Success:
We define project success based on the achievement of the following outcomes:
Increased Community Participation: The success of the project lies in active community participation, demonstrated by sustained involvement of community members, including the youth, in contributing to the OSM project. Success will be measured by the number of active contributors, their continued engagement, and the diversity of participants involved.
High-Quality and Accurate Data: The project's success will be determined by the quality and accuracy of the mapped stream network. We will assess success by conducting regular data verification, maintaining data integrity, and incorporating user feedback to ensure the reliability and usefulness of the geographical data.
Local Knowledge Enhancement: The project's success will be evident in the improvement of local knowledge about the Kabani River stream network. This includes the accurate naming of streams and the utilization of local expertise to enrich the geographical data. Success will be measured by the extent to which the local community's knowledge is captured and reflected in the mapped data.
Positive Community Impact: The project's success will be measured by the positive impact it has on the local community. This includes opportunities created for youth engagement, environmental conservation awareness, and the utilization of the mapped data for urban planning, emergency response, and community development. Success will be evaluated based on the tangible benefits realized by the local community through the project's outcomes.
In summary, the community-defined project goals revolve around youth engagement, mapping the Kabani River stream network, and fostering community collaboration. Success will be assessed based on community participation, data quality, local knowledge enhancement, and the positive impact on the local community.
List the tools you intend to use during your project and why
- OpenStreetMap (OSM): OSM will be the primary tool for mapping and editing the stream network. It provides a user-friendly interface and a collaborative platform for collecting, verifying, and maintaining geographical data. OSM's open data structure aligns with the project's goal of creating freely accessible information.
- GIS Software: Geographic Information System (GIS) software, such as QGIS, will be employed to analyze and visualize the collected data. GIS tools offer advanced spatial analysis capabilities, enabling us to study the stream network, identify patterns, and generate useful insights for decision-making.
- Field Data Collection Tools: We will use GPS-enabled devices or smartphones equipped with mapping applications (e.g., OSM tracker) for field data collection. These tools allow us to accurately record the coordinates and attributes of stream features during on-site visits, ensuring data integrity and improving the quality of the mapped network.
- Data Verification and Generalization: To ensure the accuracy and validity of the data, we will employ data verification tools within the OSM ecosystem.
The stories of the OSM Micro Grant Project will be shared through various channels. We will utilize online platforms such as our project website and social media channels to provide regular updates and share engaging content. We will also engage with local media outlets to share press releases and success stories. Presentations, workshops, and collaborations with NGOs and government agencies will further help us reach the community. Visual documentation in the form of photographs and videos will be used to showcase the project's progress. Additionally, comprehensive project reports will be produced and shared with stakeholders and funding organizations to ensure wider dissemination of the project's stories. Through these communication strategies, we aim to effectively highlight the community's involvement, the impact on local development, and the significance of open geographical data for sustainable planning and environmental conservation.
Partnerships
Successful applications will demonstrate one or more partnerships with a local data user. Priority will be given to applications for which the data has been requested by a partnering organisation, or where the partner organisation has expressed interest in collecting the data for a specific use or intervention. Example partners include local non-government organisations (NGOs), community based organisations (CBOs), local governments, companies, universities, schools, and other academic institutions.
Describe who will use your data
1. Emergency Response Agencies: The mapped stream network data will be valuable to emergency response agencies such as disaster management authorities and local rescue teams. It will assist in assessing flood risks, determining evacuation routes, and improving emergency preparedness and response plans for the Kabani River basin.
2. Environmental Conservation Organizations: Environmental conservation organizations can leverage the mapped data to monitor the health of the river ecosystem, identify areas of ecological importance, and develop conservation strategies. The data will contribute to the protection and management of the Kabani River's natural resources and biodiversity.
3. Researchers and Academics: Researchers and academics studying various aspects of hydrology, river systems, and environmental sciences will find the mapped stream network data useful for their studies. The data can support research on water quality, hydrological modeling, habitat assessment, and ecological studies related to the Kabani River basin.
4. Local Community and NGOs: The local community and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) working in the Kabani River can benefit from the mapped stream network data for community development initiatives, environmental advocacy, and participatory decision-making processes. The data will provide a valuable resource for community-led projects, education programs, and raising awareness about river conservation.
5. Tourist and Recreational Organizations: The mapped data can be utilized by tourist and recreational organizations to enhance visitor experiences in the Kabani River basin. It can aid in developing nature trails, water-based activities, and promoting sustainable tourism while ensuring the protection of the river's natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Overall, the completion of the project will provide a valuable resource of geographical data for multiple stakeholders, contributing to informed decision-making, environmental conservation, research, and community development in the Kabani River area.
Describe any other partnerships and collaborations you plan to mobilise or establish for the purpose of the project
In order to enhance the impact and sustainability of the project, we intend to mobilize and establish partnerships and collaborations with various stakeholders. These include:
Local Government Agencies: We plan to collaborate with local government agencies responsible for water resources management, urban planning, and environmental conservation. By working closely with these agencies, we aim to align our mapping efforts with their goals and integrate the project's data into their decision-making processes. This collaboration will ensure the long-term relevance and utilization of the mapped stream network data.
Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs): Engaging with local and regional NGOs specializing in environmental conservation, community development, and education will allow us to pool resources and expertise. These partnerships will facilitate knowledge exchange, community outreach, and joint initiatives that leverage the project's data for broader environmental and social impact.
Academic Institutions: Collaborating with universities and research institutions that have expertise in hydrology, geography, and environmental sciences will enable us to access specialized knowledge and research capabilities. These partnerships can involve joint research projects, student involvement, and the sharing of best practices in mapping and data analysis.
International Organizations: Partnering with international organizations that focus on open data, mapping initiatives, and sustainable development can provide access to global networks, funding opportunities, and technical expertise. These partnerships will help promote the project on an international scale, showcase its impact, and foster knowledge sharing across borders.
Corporate Sector: Engaging with corporate entities, particularly those with interests in environmental sustainability and social responsibility, can provide financial support, resources, and technical assistance. Partnerships with companies in sectors such as technology, mapping, and infrastructure development can contribute to the project's scalability and ensure its long-term viability.
Through these partnerships and collaborations, we aim to leverage diverse expertise, resources, and networks to maximize the impact of the project. By fostering mutually beneficial relationships with key stakeholders, we can enhance community engagement, promote sustainable development practices, and create a lasting legacy for the Kabani River stream network mapping project.
Expansion
The OSM Micro Grant Project aims to expand its impact and reach by focusing on the following areas:
Community Outreach: We will expand our community outreach efforts by organizing additional workshops, training sessions, and awareness campaigns to involve more community members, particularly targeting marginalized groups and underrepresented communities. By empowering a diverse range of individuals to contribute to the mapping efforts, we aim to enhance inclusivity and ensure a comprehensive representation of the Kabani River stream network.
Data Validation and Improvement: Building upon the initial mapping efforts, we will prioritize data validation, improvement, and enrichment. This involves engaging local experts, government agencies, and environmental organizations to verify and augment the mapped data, ensuring its accuracy and completeness. By incorporating local knowledge and expertise, we aim to enhance the value and reliability of the geographical data.
Integration with Local Development Initiatives: We will explore opportunities to integrate the project's data and findings with local development initiatives, such as urban planning projects, environmental conservation programs, and disaster management strategies. By collaborating with relevant stakeholders, we aim to ensure the practical utilization of the mapped stream network data for sustainable development and decision-making processes.
Partnerships and Collaborations: We will actively seek partnerships and collaborations with organizations, both local and international, working in related fields such as water resource management, environmental conservation, and geospatial data analysis. These partnerships will enable us to leverage additional resources, expertise, and funding opportunities, further enhancing the project's impact and sustainability.
Long-Term Data Maintenance: Recognizing the importance of long-term data maintenance, we will establish mechanisms for continuous data updates, verification, and community involvement. This may include creating a local mapping community, organizing regular meetups, and establishing protocols for data maintenance and governance. By ensuring the ongoing integrity of the mapped stream network data, we aim to maximize its long-term benefits and relevance.
Through these expansion efforts, the project seeks to create a lasting impact by engaging a wider community, improving data quality, integrating with local development initiatives, forging partnerships, and establishing sustainable data maintenance practices. The ultimate goal is to create a comprehensive and reliable resource for the Kabani River stream network, contributing to informed decision-making, environmental conservation, and community development in the region.
Project plan and budget
| 1 | Workshop expenses: | |
|---|---|---|
| Venue rental | 10,000 | |
| Refreshments and snacks for participants | 5,000 | |
| OSM account creation and internet charges | 5,000 | |
| Total workshop expenses: | 20,000 | |
| 2 | Stream network digitization expenses: | |
| Salary for 3 field surveyors for 1 month | 50,000 | |
| Data handling and updating | 10,000 | |
| Total digitization expenses: | 60,000 | |
| 3 | Stream naming expenses: | |
| Transportation for field visits | 5,000 | |
| Salary for 2 field surveyors for 1 week | 5,000 | |
| Total naming expenses: | 10,000 | |
| 4 | Cross-checking and generalization expenses: | |
| GIS expert consultation fees | 10,000 | |
| Total | 100,000 |
Declaration
By submitting this form to OpenStreetMap Kerala Team, you certify the information contained in this application is correct, and that if you are awarded a grant, you will use it only for the purposes described above. You will provide written documentation and receipts for all of your expenses to Humanitarian OpenStreetMap Team to demonstrate this. You understand that the decisions made by the Booster Grant facilitation committee are final.
Luqumanul Hakeem
--Ferns (talk) 16:53, 16 June 2023 (UTC)
Project Completion Declaration
I, Luqumanul Hakeem, affirm that the project "Digitize Stream Network of Kabani River in Kerala State" accurately represents its goals and outcomes. The information provided is true, adheres to OpenStreetMap principles, and commits to data accuracy, community engagement, and transparency. Modifications will be communicated promptly. The project aims to contribute valuable geographical data, enhance community knowledge, and foster collaboration
Endorsements
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