1 © 2024 The World Bank 1818 H Street NW, Washington DC 20433 Telephone: 202-473-1000; Internet: www.worldbank.org Some rights reserved This work is a product of the staff of The World Bank. The findings, interpretations, and conclusions expressed in this work do not necessarily reflect the views of the Executive Directors of The World Bank or the governments they represent. The World Bank does not guarantee the accuracy of the data included in this work. The boundaries, colors, denominations, and other information shown on any map in this work do not imply any judgment on the part of The World Bank concerning the legal status of any territory or the endorsement or acceptance of such boundaries. Rights and Permissions The material in this work is subject to copyright. Because The World Bank encourages dissemination of its knowledge, this work may be reproduced, in whole or in part, for noncommercial purposes as long as full attribution to this work is given. Attribution—Please cite the work as follows: “World Bank. 2024. Geospatial Capacity Assessment of the Commonwealth of Dominica. © World Bank.� All queries on rights and licenses, including subsidiary rights, should be addressed to World Bank Publications, The World Bank Group, 1818 H Street NW, Washington, DC 20433, USA; fax: 202-522-2625; e-mail: pubrights@worldbank.org. 2 Executive Summary Dominica is a Small Island Developing State located in the Eastern Caribbean between Guadeloupe and Martinique. It is a volcanic island with mountainous terrain that includes nine potentially active volcanic centres. The island's location, geology, and topography make it susceptible to hazards such as hurricanes, floods, landslides, and earthquakes. In recent years, the country has been severely impacted by several storms and hurricanes, the most notable being Hurricane Maria in 2017, which caused widespread devastation. A Post- Disaster Needs Assessment (PDNA) concluded that Hurricane Maria resulted in total damages of EC$2.51 billion (US$930.9 million) and losses of EC$1.03 billion (US$380.2 million), equivalent to 226 percent of gross domestic product (GDP) at the time.1 In 2018, the Government of the Commonwealth of Dominica (GoCD) passed the Climate Resilience Act and established a Climate Resilience Execution Agency (CREAD). A National Climate Resilience and Recovery Plan (CRRP) was developed to define the actions and policies required to make Dominica a climate resilient nation in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria. The CRRP calls for the creation of ten critical high-impact climate resilience initiatives including the establishment of a centralised GIS Unit with the intention of ushering a more data driven approach to decision making. The establishment of a GIS Unit is currently in progress to effectively manage and analyze spatial data related to the environment, the population, the economy, infrastructure, and risk. In working towards the establishment of the GIS Unit, Dominica has continued to advance its capacity in the use of geospatial technology, from equipment to information and communication technology (ICT) infrastructure, as well as legislative and policy reforms and capacity building. The World Bank’s Digital Earth for a Resilient Caribbean technical assistance project has objectives that are well aligned with the needs and policy priorities of the GoCD: to enhance resilience and leverage data for enhanced decision making. The project aims to raise awareness and enhance local capacity in the Caribbean to make use of Earth Observation (EO) data and services in support of resilient infrastructure and housing operations. DomiNode, Dominica’s spatial data portal is operational but has the potential to be further enhanced and utilised. Some improvements have been made to the platform through an ongoing consultancy. A cabinet decision has been made to assign a focal point for the portal which will eventually be managed by the GIS Unit to be formed, in collaboration with the GoCD’s ICT Unit. To ensure that the new GIS Unit and Dominica’s geospatial capacity advancements are both sustainable and responsive to user needs, they must be adequately funded, supported by policy, and guided by stakeholder’s inputs through technical working groups. Dominica has a solid foundation upon which a robust geospatial infrastructure can be established. Enhanced and updated data on exposure and vulnerability of physical infrastructure, and the establishment and maintenance of local capacity in the collection, management, analysis, and dissemination of this geospatial data will be critical to enhancing Dominica’s resilience to hazards and the effects of climate change going forward. 1 This Post-Disaster Needs Assessment was carried out in 2017 and used the latest GDP data from 2016. 3 Acknowledgements This report was prepared by the World Bank for the Physical Planning Division within the Commonwealth of Dominica’s Ministry of Housing and Urban Development. The technical team was led by Pierre Chrzanowski (Disaster Risk Management Specialist), with contributions from Andrina Abraham (Geospatial Consultant), Nuala Cowan (Disaster Risk Management Consultant), Michael Fedak (Data Management and Geospatial Consultant), Mira Gupta (Program Design and Evaluation Consultant), Shania Scotland (Geospatial Consultant) and Christopher Williams (Geospatial Consultant). The World Bank wishes to acknowledge Permanent Secretary Dr. Kyra Paul of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, and Development Control Officer Lyn Baron of the Physical Planning Division, for providing technical guidance, feedback, and coordination to support the development of this report. The assessment team would also like to express its gratitude to the ministries, agencies, and individual stakeholders who shared their insights and opinions on Dominica's current capacity to use geospatial technology. These stakeholders include: the Physical Planning Division (PPD) and Lands and Surveys Division (LSD) from the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development; the Division of Agriculture, the Fisheries Division and the Forestry, Wildlife and Parks Division from the Ministry Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy; the Central Statistics Office (CSO) from the Ministry of Finance, Economic Development, Climate Resilience and Social Security; the Environmental Health Unit from the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Social Services; Road and Engineering Surveys, and the ICT Unit from the Ministry of Public Works, Public Utilities and Digital Economy; the Office of Disaster Management and the Dominica Meteorological Office from the Ministry of National Security and Legal Affairs; the Dominica Electricity Services Limited (DOMLEC) and Dominica Water and Sewage Company Ltd. (DOWASCO); Dominica State College, Humanitarian OpenStreetMap; IsraAID; Open Solutions Ltd.; Smith Warner International Ltd.; Shop DM and World University Service of Canada. This report was prepared under the World Bank’s Digital Earth for a Resilient Caribbean project, made possible by funding from the Global Facility for Disaster Reduction and Recovery (GFDRR), and aligned with preferencing from the Government of Canada to support risk-informed decision-making through the use of Earth Observation tools and techniques. 4 Contents Executive Summary ..................................................................................................................................... 3 Acknowledgements...................................................................................................................................... 4 Contents ....................................................................................................................................................... 5 Acronyms ...................................................................................................................................................... 8 1. Introduction ....................................................................................................................................... 10 1.1 Context.............................................................................................................................................. 10 1.2 Purpose and Scope ........................................................................................................................... 11 2. Methodology and Approach ...............................................................................................................12 2.1 Data Collection Methods............................................................................................................12 2.2 Risks and Assumptions .............................................................................................................13 3. Institutional Arrangements ................................................................................................................14 3.1 Spatial Data Infrastructure (SDI) Overview...............................................................................14 3.2 Policies and Legislation ............................................................................................................14 3.2.1 Regulations and Policies Promoting Access to Geospatial Information ............................ 15 3.2.2 Regulations for limiting access to geospatial information .................................................16 3.2.3 Regulations regarding underlying stakeholder relationships ................................................18 3.2.4 Digitisation, E-Government, and Public Service Modernization ............................................ 19 3.3 Relevant Agency Specific Legislation and Treaties ....................................................................... 19 3.3.1 Land Surveying ...................................................................................................................... 19 3.3.2 Physical Planning ................................................................................................................. 20 3.3.3 Statistics .............................................................................................................................. 20 3.3.4 Disaster Management ...........................................................................................................21 3.3.5 Meteorology and Hydrology ..................................................................................................21 3.3.6 Climate Resilience ................................................................................................................21 3.4 Agencies without Legislation .......................................................................................................... 22 3.5. Coordination Mechanisms ............................................................................................................. 22 3.5.1 Central GIS Unit ......................................................................................................................... 23 3.6 Collaboration with NGOs, academia, and the private sector ........................................................ 24 3.6.1 Non-Governmental Partnerships ............................................................................................. 24 5 3.6.2 Professional and Expert Organisations ................................................................................... 24 3.6.3 UN Organizations ...................................................................................................................... 25 3.6.4 Linkage with Academia ............................................................................................................ 26 3.6.5 OpenStreetMap Community ..................................................................................................... 26 3.6.6 Private Sector ........................................................................................................................... 26 3.7. Financial Planning ........................................................................................................................ 26 3.7.1 Financial resources for geospatial development .................................................................... 27 4. People .................................................................................................................................................... 28 4.1 Local Labor Market ................................................................................................................... 28 4.2 Human Capital........................................................................................................................... 32 4.3 Spatial Data Education ............................................................................................................. 36 4.3.2 Education ................................................................................................................................ 37 4.4 Capacity Building ...................................................................................................................... 38 4.4.1 Training Initiatives .................................................................................................................. 38 4.4.2 Training Priorities ................................................................................................................... 39 4.4.3 Capacity Building Challenges ................................................................................................. 40 4.5 Links to Academia and the Pipeline for Local Talent ..............................................................41 4.5.1 Internships through Dominica State College ..........................................................................41 4.5.2 Local Pipeline for GIS Talent .................................................................................................... 42 5. Data ....................................................................................................................................................... 43 5.1 Fundamental Datasets ..................................................................................................................... 43 5.2 Data Availability and Accessibility .................................................................................................. 45 5.3 Metadata ......................................................................................................................................... 46 5.4 Data Standards .............................................................................................................................. 47 5.4.1 Data Format ............................................................................................................................. 47 5.4.2 Coordinate Reference System (CRS) ..................................................................................... 47 5.5 Data Storage ................................................................................................................................... 48 6. Systems ................................................................................................................................................ 49 6.1 Telecommunications infrastructure and network capacities ..................................................... 49 6.2 Hardware .......................................................................................................................................... 51 6 6.3 Software ......................................................................................................................................... 52 6.4 Geoportals and Platforms............................................................................................................... 55 Conclusions and Recommendations......................................................................................................... 57 Appendix 1: Stakeholders Engaged ........................................................................................................... 59 Appendix 2: Externally funded GIS investments....................................................................................... 62 Appendix 3: Data Inventory........................................................................................................................ 69 7 Acronyms CARDTP Caribbean Digital Transformation Project CARICOM Caribbean Community CDEMA Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency CDM Comprehensive Disaster Management CORS Continuously Operating Reference Station CIMH Caribbean Institute of Hydrology and Meteorology CPL City Planning Labs CREAD Climate Resilience Execution Agency for Dominica CRRP The Climate Resilience and Recovery Plan CRS Coordinate Reference System CSO Central Statistics Office DOMLEC Dominica Electricity Services DOWASCO Dominica Water and Sewage Company DMS Dominica Meteorological Services DVRP Disaster Vulnerability Reduction Project E-GRIP E-Government for Regional Integration Project EGDI E-Government Development Index EO Earth Observation FAO Food and Agriculture Organization FOSS Free and Open-Source Software FDS Fundamental Datasets GFDRR Global Facility for Disaster Reduction and Recovery GIS Geographic Information Systems GNSS Global Navigation Satellite System 8 GoCD Government of the Commonwealth of Dominica GPS Global Positioning System GSD Global Support on Development G-WAN Government Wide Area Network ICT Information and Communication Technology ICTU Information and Communication Technology Unit IPCC Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change KII Key Informant Interview LSD Lands and Surveys Division MOOCs Massive Open Online Courses MOU Memorandum of Understanding NAS Network Attached Storage NEPO National Emergency Preparedness Organization NGO Non-Governmental Organization NSDI National Spatial Data Infrastructure OAS Organization of American States ODM Office of Disaster Management OECS Organization of Eastern Caribbean States PCU Project Coordination Unit PDNA Post Disaster Needs Assessment PPD Physical Planning Division PS Permanent Secretary SDI Spatial Data Infrastructure ULIS Unified Land Information System UPS Uninterrupted Power Supplies UWI University of the West Indies 9 1. Introduction 1.1 Context Dominica is a Small Island Developing State located in the Eastern Caribbean between Guadeloupe and Martinique. It is a volcanic island with mountainous terrain, that includes nine potentially active volcanic centres. The island's location, geology, and topography make it susceptible to several hydrometeorological and seismic hazards including hurricanes, floods, landslides, and earthquakes. Dominica has a population of approximately 73,000. The island’s economy is largely based on agriculture and tourism. Climate change is expected to persist as a major developmental and existential challenge to Dominica and other small island states. Based on the climate change scenarios of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Dominica is expected to be one of the countries most severely affected by climate change (per capita). The country has already experienced an increased frequency and severity of storms in recent years, in keeping with climate change projections. The country has been hit by several storms and hurricanes, including Hurricane Maria in 2017, which caused widespread devastation and destruction. Based upon an assessment of impacts to each affected sector, the Post-Disaster Needs Assessment (PDNA) concluded that Hurricane Maria resulted in total damages of EC$2.51 billion (US$930.9 million) and losses of EC$1.03 billion (US$380.2 million), equivalent to 226 percent of 2016 gross domestic product (GDP). The Government of the Commonwealth of Dominica (GoCD) in 2018 passed the Climate Resilience Act and established a Climate Resilience Execution Agency (CREAD). A National Climate Resilience and Recovery Plan (CRRP) was developed to define the actions and policies required to make Dominica a climate resilient nation in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria. The CRRP calls for the creation of ten critical high-impact climate resilience initiatives including the establishment of a centralised GIS Unit with the intention of ushering a more data driven approach to decision making. The establishment of a GIS Unit is currently in progress to effectively manage and analyze spatial data related to the environment, the population, the economy, infrastructure, and risk. The World Bank’s technical assistance project Digital Earth for Resilient Infrastructure and Housing in the Caribbean (Digital Earth for a Resilient Caribbean), aims to raise awareness and enhance local capacity in the Caribbean to make use of Earth Observation (EO) data and services in support of resilient infrastructure and housing operations. Grant activities leverage previous resilience projects in the region, building on methodological approaches, data models, and expertise. The grant components focus on: 1) building capacity for the use of EO data, tools, and services in support of resilient infrastructure and housing operations by Caribbean countries; this includes training on GIS skills, EO data and services, machine learning models, geospatial data analytics, community mapping and the management of geospatial data platforms; 2) providing operational support for the creation and use of baseline datasets to support disaster risk management objectives, including the refinement of data needs, and the integration of resulting layers into existing data 10 platforms; and 3) facilitating the exchange and dissemination of knowledge to promote the approach and results to other countries in the region. One of the key activities of the project is to assess geographic information system (GIS) user capacity in Dominica. This assessment identifies needs among the community of GIS users and highlight barriers related to institutional policies, technology or expertise. It also highlights opportunities for capacity building, knowledge exchange, and cooperation among stakeholders including government agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and the private sector. In addition to this geospatial capacity assessment, the Digital Earth for a Resilient Caribbean team is providing technical assistance to the GoCD on various initiatives including the definition of institutional arrangements for the establishment of a GIS Unit, the capture and analysis of data on Dominica’s building stock, and the identification of training needs. 1.2 Purpose and Scope This assessment is intended to provide a snapshot of the current geospatial capacity of government agencies and other relevant stakeholders in Dominica, review the current operating environment and summarize any recent or ongoing geospatial initiatives. Recommendations highlighted in this report can be used to guide priority actions as the GoCD works to create a centralised GIS Unit. The scope of the assessment was adapted from the Municipal Spatial Data Infrastructure (MSDI) Manual developed by the World Bank City Planning Labs.2 An MSDI functions as the platform by which geospatial information can be organized, shared, and leveraged to address the challenges of sustainable urban development. Human, legal and technical aspects are an integral part of the MSDI framework and inform the strategic investments by governments to support coordinated data-driven planning efforts. The four core components of this assessment are based on the MSDI Manual’s pillars collectively known as the IPDS framework: 1) Institutional Arrangements, 2) People, 3) Data and 4) Systems. Findings from this assessment will be used to inform discussions with the government client, the Physical Planning Division, on which technical assistance activities to prioritize under the Digital Earth for a Resilient Caribbean project. 2 https://collaboration.worldbank.org/content/sites/collaboration-for-development/en/groups/city-planning- labs/documents.entry.html/2021/03/18/_manual_cpl_municipalspatialdatainfrastructure-2Rxa.html 11 2. Methodology and Approach 2.1 Data Collection Methods Team members from the Digital Earth for a Resilient Caribbean project conducted this Geospatial Capacity Assessment between June and October 2023, to better understand the current capacity and resources available to support the GoCD’s geospatial needs and identify priority areas for technical assistance. The assessment team used a mixed methods approach to data collection, using quantitative and qualitative techniques to gather primary data. Primary data sources included an online survey among Geospatial Specialists who attended a June 2023 workshop hosted by the World Bank’s Disaster Vulnerability Reduction Project (DVRP), and key informant interviews conducted with government, private sector, and NGO stakeholders and members of the diaspora in September 2023. Secondary data in the form of technical reports, institutional policies and project documents were also reviewed and integrated into the analysis. The findings of this assessment report were based on data collected through the following methods: Literature and Desk Review Both publicly available reports and internal private documents were reviewed for this assessment. Private correspondence with local and regional stakeholders was key to validating the information contained in the documents reviewed. Of the publicly available reports, the team relied on regional assessments of the state of ICT and GIS in Dominica and the Caribbean. Post-disaster assessments were also key to understanding the state of the ICT infrastructure in Dominica after Hurricane Maria. Publications of regulatory agencies were also consulted with regards to telecommunications and data. Stakeholder Survey A survey of GIS users in Dominica was conducted with stakeholders from the GoCD, statutory bodies, and private sector companies to better understand their professional and organizational experiences. Among the 26 GIS users that completed more than half of the survey, 80% were from GoCD agencies, highlighting the strong engagement of the public sector. The survey targeted key areas, including technical skills, institutional capacity, systems, and data, providing a wide range of insights about the current state of the GIS community. Key Informant Interviews The Assessment Team conducted 18 key informant interviews with 22 key stakeholders from GoCD agencies, statutory bodies, private sector firms, NGOs, and members of the diaspora community. A master roster of interview questions was developed from which questions tailored to each stakeholder group were selected. Interviews ranged in length from 30 thirty minutes to two hours, and included many questions that allowed respondents to provide as little or as much information as they preferred without time constraints. Of the stakeholders engaged in key informant interviews, 64% represented GoCD agencies and 45% were women. 12 2.2 Risks and Assumptions The Assessment Team wishes to acknowledge the following risks and assumptions associated with its data collection approach and the operating environment under which many GIS advocates within the GoCD are working. Risks • Dominica received an influx of donor interest and activity following Hurricane Maria in 2017. While this assessment had many unique elements, it is possible that stakeholders were fatigued and less engaged due to the saturation of donor activities. • The Climate Resilience Execution Agency of Dominica (CREAD), through its mandate and personnel, has been a key supporter of GIS in Dominica. The agency officially ended its activities in December 2023 and with it the risk that government strong focus on GIS might fade. However, part of CREAD activities should continue through a new Resilience Unit though exact mandate has still to be determined. • The stakeholder landscape for GIS users in Dominica is constantly changing. Data presented in this report is accurate based on the date of publication, but it should be noted that the stakeholder landscape could change again in a matter of months as projects end, roles are changed, and/or GIS professionals migrate, pursue educational opportunities or change career paths. Assumptions • Key findings and recommendations included in this assessment were developed to support the creation of a centralised GIS Unit in accordance with the CRRP. There is an assumption that the GIS Unit will be created. If resource constraints result in a lower allocated budget than is required, the GIS Unit may be limited in its ability to fully benefit from the guidance outlined in this report. • An underlying assumption in developing this report is that there is interest among senior leadership within the GoCD to understand the views and experiences of GIS professionals, many of whom are in mid-level roles. An appreciation of the skills of GIS users and the data they produce is critical to the success and impact of this assessment. • Another assumption is that the digital economy is going to play an increasing role for the country, that it will transform all sectors, and that both the private and public sector will look for more and more digital savvy professionals to recruit, and that GIS is part of it. 13 3. Institutional Arrangements 3.1 Spatial Data Infrastructure (SDI) Overview Institutional arrangements refer to the capacity of the GoCD to develop and sustain formal policy, to the regulatory and governing structures that support geospatial related activities, and to the role of the GoCD in fostering the growth of the broader geospatial ecosystem. Geospatial technology has been used to support the development of Dominica since the 1990s, when the first GIS was established using data derived from the digitization of paper maps and associated records.3 The majority of this data was from 1995 and earlier, and these datasets are still used in the national GIS, with few updates. There have been some institutional changes to accommodate the use of digital geospatial technology. The Land Survey Act has been amended to allow Land Surveyors to use modern Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) based coordinate systems. Significant progress has also been made in data collection and implementation of systems, such as the DomiNode spatial data sharing platform and the creation of a government data center and wide-area network.4 However, there is no overarching spatial data infrastructure (SDI) policy or legislation and sharing of data faces major obstacles. The GoCD has acknowledged the need to build its SDI capacity and improve data sharing.5 Several workshops and trainings have been conducted over the past decade to build capacity in geospatial technologies and to discuss data sharing arrangements, but these have not resulted in policy changes. The GoCD is working towards the establishment of a central GIS Unit, which was referenced in a speech from the Prime Minister during the Organization for American States (OAS) High-Level Seminar on a Data-Based Agenda for Decision Making in November 2022, and a Cabinet Decision on the formation of the unit was issued in April 2023. The Cabinet is expecting to make additional policy around roles, responsibilities, and procedures. Concurrently, fundamental enabling legislation and policies around data governance and cybersecurity are being pursued by the GoCD with support from the Caribbean Digital Transformation Project (CARDTP). 3.2 Policies and Legislation Successful uptake of geospatial technologies requires foundational policies and legislation around data security, sharing, and management to be successfully implemented. The following sections use a methodology developed for the region and applied in a neighbouring state with a similar governmental structure and culture, to assess the enabling environment. This assessment focuses on legislation and policies with respect to spatial information use in the GoCD and civil society. 3 Ian C. King, “REVIEW OF GIS CAPABILITY AND NEEDS IN CPACC PARTNER INSTITUTIONS �, RPIU Technical Report TR 98001 (Barbados, Caribbean Planning for Adaptation to Global Climate Change Regional Project Implementation Unit, 1998) 4 Dominode.dm 5 Dominica News Online, August 8, 2012, https://dominicanewsonline.com/news/homepage/news/business/dominica- moves-to-improve-data-collection-capability/ 14 In 2019, the Government of Saint Lucia contracted a joint venture of Kadastre and KU Leuven to investigate the creation of a formal SDI in the country.6 The consultancy resulted in the creation of a Legal Review Report, which provides an analysis of the laws, regulations and policies in Saint Lucia (related to NSDI) and identifies major gaps.7 This review was based on the Legal Framework for National Spatial Data Infrastructure as developed by Katleen Janssen.8 It consisted of three categories of laws, regulations and policies: 1) Regulations/policies for promoting geospatial information availability/use; 2) Regulations/policies for limiting geospatial information availability/use; and 3) Regulations/policies dealing with the underlying relationships between the stakeholders. As OECS countries, Dominica and Saint Lucia share a similar organizational culture, legislation, and cope with many of the same challenges around capacity and exposure to disasters. For these reasons, a similar assessment could provide value for Dominica. 3.2.1 Regulations and Policies Promoting Access to Geospatial Information These regulations and policies promote the provision of access to the public sector geospatial datasets by the citizens. This access is particularly relevant in cases of disasters and/or emergencies. These regulations establish the “right-to-know� the legal process by which requests for government-held information, can be obtained at no cost or at minimal cost, barring standard exceptions.9 The Constitution of the Commonwealth of Dominica Article 10 concerns the protection of freedom of expression and has the following statement regarding freedom of information: Except with his own consent, a person shall not be hindered in the enjoyment of his freedom of expression, including freedom to hold opinions without interference, freedom to receive ideas and information without interference, freedom to communicate ideas and information without interference (whether the communication be to the public generally or to any person or class of persons) and freedom from interference with his correspondence.10 This clause is identical to the Constitution of Saint Lucia. Neither country has created legislation to define how this right may be exercised by the public. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines has an identical clause in their constitution but has also defined the access to information details for public documents through Access to Information legislation.11 The Cabinet of Saint Lucia passed an Open Data Policy in 2016, which defined all public 6 Christopher Williams, “Geospatial Capacity Assessment of Saint Lucia�, Technical Report for the Digital Earth for a Resilient Caribbean Project, 2023 7 Kadastre and KU Leuven Joint Venture., Legal Review – Deliverable #6 Support for the Development of an NSDI in St. Lucia, Technical Report for the Government of Saint Lucia, 2019 8 Janssen, K. (2010). The Availability of Spatial and Environmental Data in the European Union. At the Crossroads between Public and Economic Interests. Alphen a/d Rijn: Kluwer Law International. 9 ibid 10 Government of the Commonwealth of Dominica, 1978 11 Government of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, 2003 15 data as open by default.12 However, this policy has not been fully implemented and the Open Data Portal created in support of the policy is offline.13 Dominica has not enacted any similar law on open data. According to the GIS user survey conducted during the June 2023 workshop attended by 28 stakeholders including government staff, statutory bodies, and the private sector in Dominica, 45% of participants noted difficulty in accessing data sources as a challenge they encounter either often or very often and 50% of participants noted data quality issues as a challenge they encounter often or very often. The World Bank flagship report entitled 360° Resilience: A Guide to Prepare the Caribbean for a New Generation of Shocks, noted data governance gaps across the region which negatively impact data sharing .14 Recently, an activity to upgrade and mainstream the DomiNode platform created an extensive user and data permissions system, along with a mechanism for public data requests in the platform. However, requests for access to information delivered through the platform (or through email) were not always acted upon by data custodians as there was no formally recognized policy behind the sharing mechanism.15 The consultancy also recommended a creative commons license for the datasets made publicly available on DomiNode but this has not been addressed by the GoCD.16 3.2.2 Regulations for limiting access to geospatial information This section refers to types of regulations and policies that limit the availability and/or usage of geospatial information such as Privacy, Intellectual Property Rights, Security, and Liability. Dominica currently has no laws around data protection, data privacy, or cybersecurity. However, through the CARDTP, the GoCD has acquired the services of a joint venture between Norway Registers Development AS and Tira Greene Consulting (Anguilla) to undertake a legal review of the policy enabling environment for a digital economy, including cybersecurity, data protection and privacy legislation.17 The Terms of Reference for this activity indicate that draft Electronic Crimes and Data Protection Bills exist. At the regional level, the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), through the 2011 E-Government for Regional Integration Project (E-GRIP) has produced model legislation for Data Protection, and Electronic Crimes.18 In 2022, under the CARDTP, the OECS began a consultancy to investigate the creation of harmonized Data Protection legislation, but no products have been published from this consultancy as yet.19 12 Government of Saint Lucia 2016 13 Williams, 2023 14 Rozenberg, Julie; Browne, Nyanya; De Vries Robbé, Sophie; Kappes, Melanie; Lee, Woori; Prasad, Abha. 2021. 360° Resilience: A Guide to Prepare the Caribbean for a New Generation of Shocks. © World Bank, Washington, DC. http://hdl.handle.net/10986/36405 License: CC BY 3.0 IGO 15 Personal correspondence 16 Kartoza and Piensa Joint Venture, “DomiNode Data Use Disclaimer and Licence�, Technical Report prepared for the Government of the Commonwealth of Dominica, 2020 17 http://cardtp.gov.dm/images/ToR_Review_of_Policies_and_Legislations-DM-MPWDE-200480-CS-QCBS.pdf 18 https://www.oecs.org/en/our-work/knowledge/library/projects/egrip 19 https://projects.worldbank.org/en/projects-operations/contractoverview/1708717 16 Within the GoCD, the Census and Statistics Act (Articles 12 and 13), speak to the Security of Information collected by the Central Statistics Office (CSO), specifically personally identifiable information and information about private business such as profits and revenues. The Act does allow disclosure with written consent from the party from which the data was collected. It also forbids persons employed by the CSO from sharing data without “lawful authority�. The Act also extends to persons not employed by the CSO disclosing or communicating data obtained in contravention of the Act. Consultation with the CSO indicated that this Act predates the UN Fundamental Principles of Official Statistics and a new Act has been drafted based on the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Statistics Model Bill.20 21 This drafted legislation is currently with the Attorney General and has not yet advanced to cabinet.22 Adoption of the model legislation would put the responsibility for disclosure of statistical information with the Director/CEO of the CSO whereas currently permission for disclosure requires decision maker input, placing the CSO at arm's length of decision makers. The Electronic Transactions Act (Part VII: Electronic Governance) concerns the use of electronic records and electronic signatures by Government and its agencies. It allows agencies which manage electronic records to define the formats and manner of storage for that information as well as security and confidentiality procedures.23 The ICT Unit has an implicit policy of requiring government data to be stored on servers located in Dominica, and this policy has been implemented in the design and implementation of DomiNode, as all software and data are hosted at the Dominica-China Friendship Hospital data center. In consultation with the ICT Unit regarding this policy, they indicated that this was not a written policy or regulation but the preference of GoCD decision makers. They enforce this policy through restricting access to cloud services and, when consulted, informing agencies that they need to store their information on government servers. The ICT Unit did not indicate that they were aware of a policy to formalize this arrangement being in progress. In the Terms of Reference for the DomiNode upgrade activity, the consulting firm was to provide an off-island regional failover which would allow continuity of access to the system. This failover was created and a cloud replica of the system provided, however, in discussions with the ICT Unit, the firm determined that local policies make this solution undesirable to the GoCD, and it was therefore abandoned.24 Other units within the GoCD indicated that they use cloud storage for data and for running analysis tools.25 Most indicated that they had been trained to use these tools through technical assistance and were doing so without support from the ICT Unit. Based on this assessment, it is likely that most technical support activities do not coordinate with the ICT Unit in the delivery of their projects and therefore ignore this requirement. In cases where long term support is necessary, the ICT Unit is consulted and enforces the requirement for data storage. 20 https://unstats.un.org/unsd/dnss/gp/FP-Rev2013-E.pdf 21 https://statistics.caricom.org/2023/06/22/statistics-model-bill/ 22 Interview, September 2023. 23 https://dominica.gov.dm/laws/2013/Electronic%20Filing,%202013%20ACT%2020%20of%202013.pdf 24 Email correspondence 25 Interviews, September 2023 17 3.2.3 Regulations regarding underlying stakeholder relationships This type of legislation refers to the cooperative relationship between relevant stakeholders that is governed by rules on coordinating bodies, partnerships, citizens representation and procedures for cooperation agreements. The commonly followed formal process for sharing of information within government involves a written request sent from the requesting Department or Division Head to the Permanent Secretary (PS) of the parent Ministry, who reviews the request and if appropriate, forwards the request to the PS of the data holder, who then forwards it to the relevant division or department. This process can be conducted by email, but the printed and couriered letters require a signature from the recipient and are entered into the government document registry as official correspondence, whereas emails do not. There are separate document registries for incoming and outgoing correspondence. This allows the letters to be referred to in the future as a formal record of a decision and a paper trail for authorizing a data request. For requests from external agencies, there is no formally defined process. The coordinating role of the Climate Resilience Execution Agency of Dominica (CREAD) has assisted some agencies in accessing data for the purposes of advancing development projects. 26 In some cases, the Head of Department may choose to make information available without relying on the decision of the PS or a decision maker, if they feel fulfilling the request would not have negative consequences.27 In cases where the information is of a sensitive nature, the requestor may be asked to sign a release or take an oath (for example, to access population census data) to uphold data confidentiality. These requests may also require permission from a decision maker or a formal cabinet decision, depending on the nature of the request. These request processes are not formalized and do not guarantee any response for the requestor or receipt of the requested information. In cases where agencies are often sharing information, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) may be created which defines information to be shared and the process for sharing. Implementation of an MoU requires cabinet level review and approval. Such a document was created between the Land Registry, Lands and Surveys Division, Physical Planning Division and the ICT Unit to facilitate the implementation of the Unified Land Information System (ULIS).28 The CSO also has MoUs with agencies for sensitive information, such as National Accounts. Given the uncertainty involved, and complexity of the formal process, informal data sharing occurs frequently between agencies and is strongly based on interpersonal relationships. Data exchanged this way is not normally documented and may have completeness and other quality issues. Dependence on this mode of exchange can also lead to duplication of effort as it is dependent on the knowledge of the data holdings of the persons involved in the exchange as there is no updated central data catalogue to reference. 26 Ibid. 27 Interviews, September 2023. 28 https://dominicanewsonline.com/news/homepage/news/economy-development/ministry-of-lands-launches-ulis/ 18 Consulted stakeholders have noted the difficulty of accessing GoCD information as there is no instruction provided on government websites and no clear responsibilities assigned for handling requests for information. Through the interviews conducted in the preparation of this study, most stakeholders indicated difficulties in being aware of the existence of data if they did not have a pre-existing relationship with the holders of those datasets. 3.2.4 Digitisation, E-Government, and Public Service Modernization The GoCD has been undertaking initiatives to adapt new technologies to increase the efficiency of government. Fundamental upgrades in network and data storage capacity have been undertaken in the last five years, including the creation of the government wide-area fiber network and the data center. These upgrades have enabled the deployment of geospatial applications on the government infrastructure, including DomiNode, the Kobo Collect Mobile Data Collection Server, Survey Solutions for Statistics, and the Trimble Pivot platform for real-time GNSS corrections from the national survey control network. These upgrades have proceeded through the centralized ICT Unit of the GoCD, which continues to maintain these systems, and all other systems within the GoCD. The work programme of the ICT Unit spans from desktop support to systems administration and development of custom applications. It is responsible for all GoCD units. Statutory bodies, such as DOWASCO, DOMLEC, and the Dominica State College have in-house ICT staff separate from the unit. Despite these upgrades, Dominica ranks in the lower half of countries assessed (109/193) in the UN E- Government Survey 2022, having slightly declined in rank since 2020. In the three main categories of the E- Government Development Index (EGDI), Dominica lags its peers in the region for Online Services provision, but is more comparable in human capital and telecommunications, where it receives its highest score. This reflects reality as the upgrades to the computing infrastructure have been recent, including the Data Centre in 2022. Policies to support these investments, including cybersecurity data protection and data sharing legislation, are being investigated through consultancies at the national and regional levels funded by CARDTP. In recent budget addresses, including 2023/24, the GoCD has highlighted improving the accessibility of government as a key priority. 3.3 Relevant Agency Specific Legislation and Treaties The following paragraphs detail legislation specific to GoCD agencies which apply to the accessibility and management of geospatial information and technologies. 3.3.1 Land Surveying The Land Survey Act defines the national mapping agency as the Lands and Surveys Division (LSD) which is responsible for, “updating all maps and map sheets of the island�.29 The Act also specifies that any person, firm, 29 http://www.housing.gov.dm/divisions/lands-and-surveys-division, https://faolex.fao.org/docs/pdf/dmi87465.pdf 19 or organization which intends to carry out aerial photography of any part of the state must obtain written permission from the Director of Surveys and Commissioner of Lands, who is also the manager of the LSD and chair of the Land Surveyors’ Board. This Act is clear in the statement of responsibilities for mapping, and in practice, this responsibility has remained with the LSD for the distribution of paper topographic maps. In 2006, an amendment was made to the Act, and the accompanying regulations refer to the National GPS Network and access to non-specific electronic records under the discretion of the Director. This legislation may lead persons to assume that the LSD is the focal point for GIS in the country and while the LSD does manage some data in GIS formats, they do not have dedicated GIS positions within the LSD, however they do have persons with GIS training who regularly undertake GIS tasks, despite this being outside the remit of their official position. The “Geoinformation Officers� within the department are either appointed as Draughtsmen or Land Surveyors, with the formal description of these roles not reflecting any digital mapping or data management responsibilities. 30 3.3.2 Physical Planning In lieu of a clear central authority, several other agencies have developed GIS capabilities and undertaken digital mapping activities related to their mandates. The legislation detailing the mandates of these agencies also sets out these activities, independent of the LSD. For example, the Physical Planning Act of 2002 explicitly states that the Physical Planning Division (PPD) must keep an electronic register of maps related to their planning decisions.31 To this end, the PPD has also retained staff with GIS training, although without accompanying job descriptions so their formal tasks either fall under the description of a Development Control or Land Use officer, which do not include GIS.32 The PPD also routinely provides mapping and GIS services to several other agencies within the government, including the LSD, Division of Agriculture and the Office of Disaster Management (ODM). Since 2013, they also maintain data on the national GeoNode (DomiNode) in cooperation with LSD and ICTU. In April 2023, a cabinet decision formalized this arrangement.33 34 3.3.3 Statistics The Central Statistics Office (CSO) also has a legislative mandate, defined by the Census and Statistics Act, for the management of data which can be stored in a GIS.35 The Act defines “statistics� as information in connection with, or incidental to 38 items defined in the Schedule, including Housing, Agriculture, Tourism, Transport, and connected services. The CSO stores some census information in an electronic and georeferenced database but does not have permanent staff with a GIS background. For the latest census of population (2022), the CSO temporarily hired persons with a GIS background to support the delineation of enumeration districts and mapping of census responses. 30 Personal communication 31 https://dominica.gov.dm/laws/2002/act5-2002.pdf 32 Personal communication 33 Dominode.dm 34 Cabinet decision, April 2023. 35 https://dominica.gov.dm/laws/chapters/chap19-03.pdf 20 3.3.4 Disaster Management The Office of Disaster Management (ODM) and the National Emergency Preparedness Organization (NEPO) advisory committee have a responsibility for mapping vulnerable areas as per the latest National Disaster Plan (2001).36 The ODM is a coordination agency with limited staffing and therefore it relies on other agencies, within the public and private sectors, to accomplish its mandate, for example, emergency shelter locations are mapped and made available online through collaboration with PPD, Local Government and the ICTU.37 There is an ongoing effort to update the National Emergency Management Legislation along the lines of the Model Comprehensive Disaster Management (CDM) Bill created by CDEMA.38 39 The Model CDM Bill defines a more active role for ODM in coordinating mapping activities and assembling disaster risk information in electronic databases. ODM is also attempting to increase its staffing to include additional technical personnel with natural hazard and GIS training.40 In addition to the national legislation, the ODM is the focal point for CDEMA, which is a CARICOM treaty organization. Dominica is a signatory to, “The Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas Establishing the Caribbean Community, Including the CARICOM Single Market and Economy�.41 This treaty defines the role of CDEMA as a regional “clearinghouse� of disaster related information. To this end, CDEMA has create d the Caribbean Risk Information System (CRIS), which has a geographic component, GeoCRIS. Several of Dominica’s hazard datasets are available on GeoCRIS. 3.3.5 Meteorology and Hydrology The Dominica Meteorological Services (DMS) are Dominica’s official meteorological agency. They are primarily responsible for aviation forecasting but have recently tried to expand their scope of services to include climate readings and hydrology. They have a formal relationship with the World Meteorological Organization and its regional subsidiary, the Caribbean Meteorological Organization. The Caribbean Institute of Hydrology and Meteorology (CIMH) is the regional training center for meteorological technicians and all DMS staff have received some level of training from CIMH. Data is shared between DMS and CIMH on a regular basis. 3.3.6 Climate Resilience After Hurricane Maria, the Climate Resilience Act was passed which established the Climate Resilient Executing Agency of Dominica (CREAD).42 The Act defined the responsibilities of CREAD, including the creation and implementation of The Climate Resilience and Recovery Plan 2020-2030 (CRRP). The CRRP outlines the creation of a Centre of Excellence for Data in Resilience Decision-making which it defines as a “dedicated geographical 36 https://odm.gov.dm/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/National-Disaster-Plan.pdf 37 https://sheltermanagement.odm.gov.dm/ 38 https://disasterlaw.ifrc.org/sites/default/files/media/disaster_law/2022-09/Dominica%20IDRL_full%20report.pdf 39 https://www.cdema.org/cris1/documents/send/11-model-documents/147-draft-model-cdm-bill 40 CARICAD staffing plan, conversation with the Disaster Coordinator, 2022. 41 https://caricom.org/treaties/revised-treaty-of-chaguaramas-establishing-the-caricom-including-csme/ 42 https://disasterlaw.ifrc.org/sites/default/files/media/disaster_law/2022-04/dmi183609.pdf 21 information systems (GIS) unit�. This unit has not been created yet, but work is ongoing to have it established under Physical Planning. CREAD will be transitioned into a different structure as of 2024. 3.4 Agencies without Legislation There are a number of agencies which undertake mapping activities as part of their work plans but without legislation or official policy: � The Division of Agriculture includes the Agricultural ICT Unit which includes GIS tasks in its core activities.43 The core task of the Division is the creation of a census of farmers and farmland. Aerial mapping has been a focus of the Division recently as they have received training and equipment from the University of the West Indies (UWI). � The Fisheries Division undertakes mapping of bathymetry and bathymetric charts maintenance. � The Forestry Division undertakes mapping of forest reserves, the Waitikubuli National Trail, and protected species habitat. This could be considered part of their mandate as per legislation, but data collection and mapping are not mentioned in the Forest and Wildlife or Forests Acts.44 � The Ministry of Public Works Technical Services Division maintains a Road Surveys unit which undertakes construction surveys and mapping of road infrastructure. � The ICT Unit maintains the government wide-area network, data center, and servers as well as software in all government agencies. They have also received training in the maintenance of geospatial services and applications. They maintain the DomiNode, in cooperation with PPD and ICTU, as per a cabinet decision in April 2023. � The Ministry of Health undertakes mapping for epidemiological purposes and maintains a specialized database, with GIS capability, to monitor disease outbreaks. The Environmental Health Service Act and Amendments concern the collection of information for identifying disease outbreaks, but epidemiology or mapping is not mentioned in the legislation.45 There is also the objective to deploy a comprehensive Health Management Information System (HMIS) with funding from the CARTDP Project. � DOWASCO / DOMLEC – are government owned entities which operate outside of the public service and maintain databases of water and power infrastructure, including mapping of the infrastructure. 3.5. Coordination Mechanisms Coordination between geospatial stakeholders remains a major challenge. Without a central authority to coordinate geospatial activities and no policies or updated legislation, there is little incentive for agencies to coordinate efforts. The establishment of CREAD, the requirement of some donors to report to CREAD, and the creation of clear development plans has somewhat reduced fragmentation. However, CREAD is scheduled to 43 https://divisionofagriculture.gov.dm/units/agricultural-information-and-communication-technology-unit-aictu 44 https://dominica.gov.dm/laws/chapters/chap60-02.pdf; https://dominica.gov.dm/laws/chapters/chap60-01.pdf 45 https://dominica.gov.dm/laws/1997/act08-1997.pdf 22 end in December 2023 and is being replaced by a Resilience Unit which will have a similar role. 46 The existence of a technical body to coordinate technical assistance efforts is essential to reduce duplication of efforts and keep track of the progress and deliverables from various projects. Even with CREAD in place, many technical assistance activities work with a limited set of stakeholders within government who do not share the results of these efforts.47 3.5.1 Central GIS Unit In the past decade, the GoCD has tried to centralize responsibilities. In 2012 a workshop was held in Dominica, funded by the World Bank’s Open Data for Resilience Initiative, where the GoCD began the process of creating a spatial data management platform.48 This was followed by the release of the DomiNode platform in 2013 and the creation of a technical working group of geospatial stakeholders within government. These efforts were supported by a grant from the World Bank GFDRR. In 2017, the DomiNode was handed over to the Project Coordination Unit (PCU) of the Dominica Disaster Vulnerability Reduction Project (DVRP). The PCU had committed to formalizing the technical working group and further developing the DomiNode. A Terms of Reference was developed for the group with the intention that it be submitted to cabinet for the purposes of gaining an official endorsement for the group. An activity to develop and support DomiNode was contracted to support the development of the SDI. Through this activity, additional training was provided to the members of the working group and procedures were created for maintaining and upgrading DomiNode. Recognizing the need for a central coordinating body, the GoCD issued a cabinet decision to create a GIS Unit within the PPD in 2023. To support this unit, formal invitations to nominate a technical counterpart were issued to stakeholder agencies at the Permanent Secretary level to formally convene the technical working group. The Digital Earth for a Resilient Caribbean project is assisting the GoCD in the creation of the GIS Unit and formalization of the Technical Working Group. The membership of the group is as follows: 1. Ministry of Environment, Rural Modernization, Kalinago Upliftment and Constituency Empowerment 2. Division of Agriculture-Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy 3. Fisheries Division- Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy 4. Information, Communication & Technology Unit- Ministry of Public works, Public Utilities & Digital Economy 5. Central Statistics Office- Finance, Economic Development, Climate Resilience and Social Security 6. Environmental Health- Ministry of Health Wellness and Social Services 7. Forestry and Wildlife Division- Environment, Rural Modernization, Kalinago Upliftment and Constituency Empowerment 8. Lands and Surveys Division- Ministry of Housing and Urban Development 9. Physical Planning Division- Ministry of Housing and Urban Development 10. Road Surveys Division- Ministry of Public Works 11. Dominica State College 12. Ministry of Tourism 46 Budget address 2023/24: https://finance.gov.dm/budget/budget-addresses/file/42-budget-address-2023-2024- resetting-to-ensure-the-judicious-use-of-government-s-limited-resources 47 360 Resilience Report, p167 48 https://opendri.org/project/dominica/ 23 13. Dominica Meteorological Office- Ministry of National Security and Legal Affairs 14. Office of Disaster Management- Ministry of National Security and Legal Affairs 15. Dominica Water and Sewerage Company (DOWASCO) 16. Dominica Electricity Services (DOMLEC) 3.6 Collaboration with NGOs, academia, and the private sector Collaborations exist between the GoCD, and agencies outside of the GoCD and Dominica. The formality of these collaborations varies, with some defined by treaties, loan, and grant agreements and MoUs, while others are informal. Outside of the government and its statutory bodies, the use of GIS is minimal. Interviews with stakeholders indicated that there are few opportunities and no user groups or professional organizations focused on GIS. The nature of collaboration between the GoCD and these groups is often project based and temporary, with few long-term formal arrangements. CREAD provided some coordination to these project efforts; however, agencies outside Dominica continue to coordinate directly with their counterpart and not through any coordination body. 3.6.1 Non-Governmental Partnerships The ODM cooperates with NGOs focused on disaster management such as The Dominica Red Cross (DRC) on mapping of community vulnerability and disaster preparedness and response. The DRC is also part of the National Emergency Planning Organization (NEPO), along with the national utility companies, professional groups, and churches. NEPO is a formal body intended to coordinate planning for and responding to disasters. The Youth Emergency Action Committee (YEAC) also works with ODM on logistics on an as needed basis. The Global Support on Development (GSD) is an NGO which currently provides technical assistance to ODM, but this is currently a short-term engagement. There are NGOs with offices in Dominica, including the World University Service of Canada (WUSC) and IsraAID. These organizations were interviewed and indicated that while they undertake some data related activities and have staff skilled in GIS, they do not use GIS. The National Geographic Society is working with the Fisheries division on an undersea mapping project (Pristine Seas) which is using underwater robotic vehicles and other technologies to perform mapping and sampling of microplastics.49 50 3.6.2 Professional and Expert Organisations There are professional and expert associations in Dominica and the region which have members with geospatial training, namely: � The Dominican Professional Planners Association � The Dominican Board of Engineers � The Dominica Association of Industry and Commerce 49 https://www.nationalgeographic.org/society/our-programs/pristine-seas/ 50 Interviews, September 2023. 24 � The Dominican Society of Architects � The Dominican Association of IT Professionals, and � URISA Caribbean These organizations have varying levels of activity and were not noted by those interviewed in the preparation of this assessment as key stakeholders with regards to the development of GIS in Dominica. 3.6.3 UN Organizations Several UN Organizations work with Dominican government agencies on a project-by-project basis. After Hurricane Maria, some of these organizations opened offices in Dominica to assist with the response, and as recovery proceeded, they have scaled back their presence and conduct activities through offices in Barbados and the main office for the region in Panama. Currently engaged organizations and the nature of their engagements are as follows: UN Organization, Agency or Committee Support Provided in Dominica Is providing support to the Divisions of Agriculture and Food and Agriculture Organization of the Forestry in mapping for the census of agricultural producers United Nations (FAO) as well as drone mapping and the use of R in soil science and mapping. Provided some support post-Maria in the resettlement of International Organization for Migration (IOM) displaced persons and the mapping of evacuation routes. Has provided on Sustainable Land Management and Building United Nations Development Programme Condition Mapping and Assessment (the Building Damage (UNDP) Assessment project). Works primarily with the CSO and provide capacity support United Nations Economic Commission for on statistical matters. They also provide geospatial capacity Latin America and the Caribbean (UN-ECLAC) building for disaster management and statistics. Is providing support on land and forest management. United Nations Environment Programme Currently implementing the Partnership Initiative for (UNEP) Sustainable Land Management in Dominica.51 United Nations Framework Convention on Provides support to the Forestry Division on mapping and Climate Change (UN-FCCC) estimation of the national carbon reserve. Is working on a regional project to establish a Caribbean Committee of Experts on Global Geospatial Spatial Data Infrastructure and datum through the CARIGEO Information Management (UN-GGIM) initiative.52 51 https://pislmsids.org/ 52 https://geo.cepal.org/en/assets/modulos/proyectos.html?proyecto=5 25 3.6.4 Linkage with Academia The Dominica State College (DSC) is the only tertiary institution in Dominica. The institution offers a Geography program which does not currently have a GIS component but offers a brief introduction to GIS lecture, given by PPD staff, as part of the regularly offered course, GEOG114: Map Reading and Interpretation. The University of the West Indies has a satellite facility in Dominica where it occasionally offers courses delivered by lecturers. UWI is also implementing the HIT RESET project, which has a coastal mapping subproject in Dominica implemented by Smith Warner International and assisted by the Create Caribbean Institute at the Dominica State College.53 The University of Twente in the Netherlands has undertaken several projects in collaboration with the PPD. They have also provided training in the past to the GoCD in remote sensing, landcover mapping, landslide susceptibility modeling and other hazard and GIS related topics. 3.6.5 OpenStreetMap Community In 2022, the Humanitarian OpenStreetMap Team contracted a local implementation team to participate in the Open Cities initiative in Dominica. HOT contracted OS4D, a local consultancy company. The team consists of a software developer, an Open Data/OSM organizer from the United Kingdom, and a consultant from Dominica with a background in GIS. The team has focused on building capacity in mapping with OSM, providing several training sessions in Remote Mapping, Field Mapping, Validation using JOSM (and other tools) and introduction to the use of other tools such as Overpass Turbo. Government Agencies such as ODM, and the PDD have also participated. The main non-governmental participant in this initiative has been the Youth Emergency Action Committee (YEAC). 3.6.6 Private Sector There are no formal cooperation arrangements around geospatial data or technologies between the private sector and the GoCD. Representatives from private utilities occasionally participate in GIS related workshops but data sharing between the private sector and government seldom occurs, and where it does, it is for a regulatory purpose or for coordination regarding common infrastructure, such as power poles.54 3.7. Financial Planning 53 https://createcaribbean.org/create/ 54 Personal correspondence, National Telecommunications Regulatory Commission. 26 Geospatial technologies are seen by the GoCD as important to building resilience to natural disasters. This view is expressed in a number of recent national development plans, including the CRRP which proposes the creation of a central GIS Unit. Recurring budgetary support for geospatial initiative has been fleeting however as software licenses are rarely maintained, equipment is seldom updated or replaced and the public service lacks career tracks for GIS and other Digital Geospatial positions. Interviews have also noted problems with the misuse and theft of equipment as well as a lack of long-term training programs to consistently build capacity in the use of geospatial technologies. However, the general telecommunications and data infrastructure of the GoCD has improved through investment by the GoCD in the creation of a government wide area network (G-WAN) and data center. This network and data center is supported through a recurring budget allocation and staff from the ICT Unit. The data center and ICT Unit host and maintain most of the data platforms within the GoCD, including the DomiNode geospatial platform. The national geodetic control network is supported by a budget allocation from the LSD, but the technical components (CORS receivers) are maintained by ICT Unit staff. Given the wide range of responsibilities and technologies managed by the ICT Unit, adequate staffing of this unit is essential but also building capacity in the use of ICT in other agencies is essential. 3.7.1 Financial resources for geospatial development Geospatial Development initiatives have mostly been financed through external funding. The central government does not generally invest heavily in GIS training, software, hardware or staffing through its annual recurring budget. These external initiatives have provided significant investment in GIS development through consultancy services, technical assistance, equipment and software. These expenditures are included in the government budget according to their source of funding, including recurring expenses, loans, or grants. The GoCD is in the process of making a serious commitment by including GIS and by extension the proposed GIS unit and its maintenance as part of the GoCD annual budgetary allocation. The exact details of the funding for the unit are currently being determined, however, any unit created will need to be lean and possibly rely on outside assistance for some time. Appendix 2 lists externally funded projects with a geospatial component, which Dominica has been a beneficiary of since the first GIS project in 1995. This list is not exhaustive and several of the budgets are approximate (unless otherwise specified or sourced). 27 4. People 4.1 Local Labor Market While much has been written about the migration trends of highly educated and/or skilled workers out of Caribbean countries known as brain drain, very little has been documented about the specific factors influencing these decisions in Dominica, or among GIS professionals. The GoCD invests considerable resources in human capital, by providing loans and scholarships that allow citizens to pursue bachelor’s degrees abroad. When these students elect to stay in their country of study this represents not only a loss of skills, but also loss of investment for Dominica. When highly skilled Dominicans stay abroad, the support provided by the GoCD ends up contributing to the human capital of these other countries. In-depth interviews with GIS professionals from Dominica currently working both within and outside the country shed light on the complexities of the decision- making process including why some who return to Dominica to build a career may ultimately end up leaving again. I sometimes hear people talk about brain drain – they talk about how it’s selfish. If the opportunity of advancement isn't present at all, you can’t sit there. I sat in Dominica for 8 or 9 months without a job. If I had an opportunity somewhere else, I’d take it. -GIS professional, based outside of Dominica Understanding the dynamics of the local labor market for GIS talent, as well as the needs and values of GIS professionals, is critical for creating a professional environment in Dominica that will better support the retention of these highly skilled workers; an area where the GoCD certainly has a role to play. 4.1.1 Why, How and Where GIS Professionals Study Abroad Many GIS professionals choose to pursue opportunities for higher education outside of Dominica, as there are not many opportunities to acquire relevant technical skills locally. They often study Geography and other related disciplines at Dominica State College, which offers associate degree programs. There is also a remote campus of the University of West Indies in Dominica, but it does not offer any training relevant to GIS. Though uncommon, some students have graduated from DSC and entered into GIS jobs locally, as was the case for two hires at DOMLEC. More commonly, students receive their associate degree from DSC and then transfer to other programs outside the country to pursue their bachelor’s degree and receive more advanced technical training. All of the GIS professionals interviewed about the local labor market had earned their bachelor’s degrees abroad, while many had also earned a master’s degree abroad in a related topic. The GoCD provides support to help talented students pursue opportunities for higher education. The students who earn top marks on their high school exams receive a scholarship to study at Dominica State College. Those who excel at DSC are eligible for scholarship funding to continue their studies at a university to earn their bachelor’s degree. However, government scholarships, and their funding, are not always guaranteed. While the GoCD can subsidize associate and bachelor’s degrees, many of the GIS professionals interviewed had their 28 academic programs paid for by family members, education insurance, used their own personal savings or took out student loans. Students took different approaches depending on where they ultimately wanted to study. Stakeholders noted that the associate degree is a more widely accepted entry requirement for bachelor’s programs in the United States, while programs in Canada and the United Kingdom will accept A-level examinations. Based on these options, some GIS professionals who studied at DSC focused on earning their associate degree, while others made studying for the A-level exams their priority. One stakeholder interviewed chose to pursue his bachelor’s degree through a university in the U.K. but opted for a distance-learning program that allowed him to stay in Dominica and earn his degree for a lower cost while continuing to work. While a fewer number of those interviewed about the labor market had earned their master’s degree (three total), all of them had earned full ride scholarships to fund their graduate studies. Funding sources for these professionals included the National Science Foundation, Commonwealth Scholarships, and the Oxford-Pershing Square Scholarship. Many Dominican students choose the University of West Indies, St. Augustine campus in Trinidad, or the Mona campus in Jamaica for their bachelor’s degrees. Other popular options beyond the programs in the region are universities in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Of the interviewees who studied in these three countries, the majority selected their schools and destinations based on family connections or recommendations, including where relatives were based, and where family members had attended school (or thought highly of). One stakeholder focused on programs in Canada because they were more affordable than similar programs in the United States, and her scholarship from the GoCD would go farther there. Climate, and proximity to family were also important factors, as were the specific academic departments and/or concentrations offered by the university programs. One stakeholder interviewed chose her specific program because the school provided introductory classes in hydrology, while another chose a school based on its emphasis on environmental science, as demonstrated by the program’s many degrees (15+) under the Faculty for Environment. 4.1.2 Why Some Stay Abroad GIS professionals interviewed shared many reasons why opportunities to live and work outside of Dominica were highly attractive, and why those who leave to study in other countries do not return. They noted that while in Dominica many applications of GIS are limited to government roles, in other countries there were far more opportunities to apply their GIS skills in a variety of sectors. In terms of Dominica versus the United States, the way we were introduced to GIS the opportunities were endless. You could work in any field with GIS. - GIS professional, based in Dominica To this day, I’m a member of ESRI’s Young Professional’s Network, and Emerging Spatial Professionals of New Zealand. Any time there’s an opportunity, there’s always something being posted in that group. Definitely the opportunity was flowing like 29 water. If I could have stayed in New Zealand, I probably would have gained more experience. Because [it] would be difficult to do in Dominica. – GIS professional, based outside of Dominica Those interviewed agreed that there were more professional GIS opportunities in the countries abroad where they studied, which included the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and New Zealand. Several respondents also indicated that there were consistently more opportunities on other islands in the Caribbean region. Interviewees also shared that there are more GIS opportunities with private companies and more opportunities for funding from international organizations elsewhere in the region. Jamaica was mentioned as a country with an active community of GIS professionals, where geospatial roles are closely aligned to engineering, and geospatial techniques are well-integrated into formal engineering courses. Another compelling reason for those with GIS skills to work abroad is higher earning potential. While many of the stakeholders interviewed did not have significant outstanding student debt, several noted that it is a common reason why people remain abroad, as the level of student loan debt typically incurred in the United States, Canada, or the United Kingdom, would be very difficult to repay on a Dominican salary. One stakeholder shared that she currently earns three times more working in another country than what she was paid when working in the national employment program in Dominica.55 She noted that when she worked in Dominica she did not earn enough to live comfortably. For her it is also strategic to stay outside the country because she can use the extra income she earns to send as remittance payments to family members back home and to provide for them in a way that she would not have been able to do with a lower salary. Several of the GIS professionals interviewed felt their skills and qualifications commanded greater respect in other countries, where they are more intellectually challenged and encouraged to come up with new ideas, while in Dominica, they often struggled to convince employers of the value of their skills. The work environment in Dominica can be frustrating for returning GIS professionals; especially as their educational experiences abroad encouraged them to develop their critical thinking skills and come up with innovative ideas. One stakeholder noted that the education system in Dominica does not encourage students to identify problems and come up with solutions, and this in turn informs institutional structures. Organizational cultures that encourage new ways of thinking are very attractive to young GIS professionals and provide them with more opportunities for professional growth. 4.1.3 Why Some Return Home Aspiring GIS professionals return to Dominica for a variety of reasons. Many are required to return by the terms of their scholarships. These requirements, known as binding, exist among many full scholarship programs provided by a variety of sources, including the GoCD and the U.K. Commonwealth. Typical binding requirements can include returning to work in your home country for two years, but many stakeholders interviewed indicated 55 This role though the national employment program was not a GIS position. 30 that this is rarely enforced. Moreover, while full scholarships from the GoCD are binding, tuition-only scholarships are often not, making the tracking more difficult. Many graduates return because they miss their family and/or loved ones, and because they want to contribute their skills to the growth and development of Dominica. For these GIS professionals, it was never a question of if they would return, but rather when they would return. Other reasons for returning include respite from inclement weather abroad and feeling frustrated by the racial dynamics in other countries. As one stakeholder explained, “I’m a first-class citizen here in Dominica.� The final reason GIS professionals identified for returning home is due to financial constraints, to save money and/or to pay off student loans. 4.1.4 Barriers They Face at Home For those GIS professionals who studied in other countries and then returned home to work in Dominica, they often faced challenges and even a level of culture shock moving between the different professional worlds. As one stakeholder explained, the opportunities for GIS professionals are very scarce in Dominica. There are not that many organizations or government agencies that use GIS, and those that do, often treat it as a secondary addition to an existing job role, which was different from her experience overseas, where she performed analytical work every day to update dashboards and project maps. She explained, I want a job in Dominica that lets me do GIS all the time so badly, and there needs to be more jobs like that. When you’re focused on that all the time it’s easier to have high quality data. -GIS professional, based in Dominica She shared that many of the GIS job opportunities she would hear about in Dominica were from organizations based elsewhere, such the University of West Indies or organizations in the U.K. Another stakeholder interviewed spoke of how lucky they were to do some work for DOMLEC, which was one of the first companies on the island to use GIS, but that once that project work was completed it was very difficult to find other professional opportunities. Several of the GIS professionals interviewed shared stories of how they struggled to market their technical skills when they returned home to find work in Dominica, noting that they had to convince employers of their value. This was unique to GIS, and not a struggle faced by those who studied other disciplines such as medicine, law, or accounting abroad. As one stakeholder shared, …I started to try to teach people what they can do with GIS… the census, the planning department, public works. I had to sell myself and my degree. For a small island developing state, it’s a problem. …People do these very scientific degrees, and then you’re fighting a losing battle because you need to market yourself or have someone advocate for yourself, you come back with degrees that you can’t use. 31 -GIS professional, based outside of Dominica Another stakeholder who is currently working in Dominica noted that the value of GIS as a discipline has not caught on yet locally that way it has in other countries and explained that few people in the government see the value in mapping and remote sensing. Another GIS professional who returned only to turn around and leave again noted how difficult it was to get their resume seen, and that the process was very political and fraught with additional barriers for women who were trying to break into roles historically held by men. Related to the lack of recognition, some stakeholders mentioned the lack of appropriate compensation as a challenge. While student debt can make it difficult to return to Dominica, those who do come back may contemplate leaving again in search of greater financial security. As one interviewee explained, it did not seem healthy to struggle this much to make ends meet, when they could be somewhere else earning more and broadening their horizons. One of the greatest barriers identified by GIS professionals who stay in Dominica is the difficult and often hierarchical work culture with limited opportunities for professional growth. Young professionals who earn academic degrees in other countries often return to Dominica with a lot of drive and motivation to make positive change. Based on stakeholder feedback, many of them hit a wall upon their return and find that their skills and ambition are not necessarily embraced. I want to stay in Dominica, but I am too fast paced for things in Dominica right now. I want to go somewhere where I can be useful. -GIS professional, based in Dominica (Things here) are very hierarchical and there is very limited opportunity for higher opportunity. There’s the person at the top who shouts, and then the next person shouts at you. -GIS professional, based in Dominica One of the stakeholders interviewed indicated that these issues are driving many of the labor market challenges locally. He explained that there are highly skilled professionals who might be open to coming back, but until the country can create a space for motivated intellectuals, human capital from Dominica will continue to contribute to the growth of other countries instead of growth and development at home. 4.2 Human Capital 4.2.1 Stakeholder Participation and Use of GIS Technology Several agencies frequently use geospatial data to execute their work, and all agencies have demonstrated an interest in the use of GIS technology, with agencies like the Physical Planning Division, Lands and Surveys Division, Agriculture and Fisheries taking the lead in the advancement of skills and education within the government public sector. Other agencies, like DOWASCO, DOMLEC, Dominica Meteorological Services, Office of Disaster Management, Public Works Public Utilities and Environmental Health, expressed a desire to increase 32 the utilization of GIS technology within their agencies to promote efficiency in data collection, analysis, management, and storage. The Lands and Surveys Division plays a critical role as the national mapping agency for Dominica. They provide topographic mapping services to other agencies and facilitate the enhancement of geospatial data in both the private and public sectors. While some agencies use geospatial data to support overarching decision making, many agencies utilize geospatial data in their daily workflows. These agencies/organizations include: Physical Planning Division, Agriculture and Fisheries, Central Statistics Office, Public Works Public Utilities, World University Service of Canada (WUSC), Humanitarian OpenStreetMap (HOT), DOWASCO, Smith Warner International Ltd. (SWIL), and DOMLEC. The assessment found that most GIS professionals serving in public agencies do not hold formal and permanent GIS positions, despite performing the roles and responsibilities of a GIS professional. There is a high level of skills and educational attainment amongst the individuals in these positions. The agency that supports and promotes GIS technology most readily is the Physical Planning Division, an agency with highly educated staff, boasting advanced geospatial skills. Other supportive agencies are the Lands and Surveys Division, with a team of individuals who participate in data collection using GIS tools and resources, the Central Statistics Office, whose mandate is to collect specialized data for population and housing census, Public Works/Public Utilities, with the use of GIS and surveying tools such as GPS, total stations and drone technology, HOT, WUSC, DOWASCO, DOMLEC, ODM, Meteorological Services and Agriculture and Fisheries. Many of these agencies use GIS products based on satellite and LiDAR technology to enhance the collection of geospatial data for classification. The table below highlights stakeholder agencies that use GIS technology or products as part of their daily activities: Agency/Organization using GIS products How they are used 1 Physical Planning Division Promote development planning 2 Lands and Surveys Division Enhance GPS Surveying and monitoring of Total Stations 3 Agriculture Improve work processes 4 Fisheries Improve work processes 5 Central Statistics Office Contribute to Housing and Population Census 6 Office of Disaster Management Enhance Disaster Management in Communities 7 Dominica Meteorological Services Enhance River and Met Station Mapping for Monitoring 8 WUSC Assessment of agricultural products. Enhance studies for comparative analysis. 9 HOT Field mapping on community vulnerabilities and flood risk. 10 DOWASCO Mapping and managing pipelines and water intakes. Use of LiDAR data to extract elevation due to high accuracy. 33 11 DOMLEC Data collection and management of the electrical infrastructure. 12 SWIL Enhance vulnerability mapping 4.2.2 Spatial Data Extent and Use The use of spatial data among public and private agencies is quite extensive. The Lands and Surveys Division uses drones to collect data to update the topographic map sheets. The officer interviewed noted that although satellite imagery is available, drone imagery has proven to be more effective due to the high quality and resolution of images. The Division is also working on the conversion of the geodetic network from the Dominica 1945 British West Indies Grid to WGS84 UTM Zone 20N. The Agriculture Division outlined multiple projects that use spatial data, including, but not limited to the use of drone imagery to map and model soil type and structure, the use of aerial photographs to capture the geographic location of banana and plantain farms on the island. Officers used this imagery to identify clusters of cocoa for the extraction of soil and leaf samples to send to the UWI Cocoa Research Centre for analysis. Most of the data collected by the Division will contribute to the 2024 Agricultural Census. The Fisheries Division uses geo-referenced data to monitor the condition of marine wildlife, to look at stock status, and the state of marine biodiversity. Marine Surveys are also conducted underwater with assistance from the National Geographic Pristine Seas project. A wide range of spatial data has been collected and mapped on marine coastal areas to support the development of a marine spatial plan. Proposed plans are already in place to set up a sperm whale sanctuary, an activity that requires spatial data analysis to determine a suitable location. The Central Statistics Office uses spatial data for both the Agriculture Census, and Population and Household Census; specifically, the identification of settlements. The Environmental Health Department does not work on GIS directly, but they did indicate that they rely on other agencies such Ministry of Agriculture, the Lands and Surveys Division and the Physical Planning Division to conduct mapping activities for the management of health on the island. Public Works and Public Utilities indicated that they currently do not generate geospatial data as part of their official workflow and continue to work in a CAD environment to demarcate parcel boundaries. However, they do recognize the value and potential of geospatial data and analysis, especially for flooding and hydrological analysis. The Office of Disaster Management noted that although they are not currently working on a geospatial project, they do utilize spatial data to manage emergency shelters. Dominica Meteorological Services shared that the process of identifying meteorological stations and combining this data with satellite remote sensing data for observation and forecasting was ongoing. The World University Service of Canada (WUSC) noted that they are not working on their own GIS-intensive projects, but they are assisting with the Agriculture Census. 34 DOWASCO is working on an intensive project to identify and assess water intakes. They are using LiDAR and GIS technology to track progress during construction, and to determine elevation, which supports pressure testing and the management of gravity-fed systems. DOMLEC highlighted their enthusiasm for collecting and organising spatial data to the point that they have developed an accurate geospatial representation of their electrical grid that facilitates regular updates, data integrity checks, and quality control. They use geospatial data for visualization, queries, management of bills, network design and many other tasks. These processes are current and ongoing. The company, Smith Warner International Ltd. (SWIL) uses spatial data to assess the vulnerability of the coastline and facilitates basic coastal monitoring training for students and stakeholders to see visual changes in the coast as it relates to patterns and trends. 4.2.3 Geospatial Capacity The Lands and Surveys Division, which is the official mapping agency for the Government of Dominica (GoCD), has two staff members dedicated to spatial data collection and management. The Physical Planning Division which acts as the agency for data management, collection, analysis, capacity building and providing technical advice related to GIS. Within the Division, there is one dedicated GIS Officer, and three staff members with advanced knowledge of GIS. The Road Surveys Division has one staff member proficient in GIS, with formal training in the use of drones, GIS software, surveying, and GPS units. The Environmental Health Department, have a number of staff that are involved in mobile data collection using tablets. One Officer has experience using of GIS software and GPS units and has participated in several GIS-related capacity-building activities. Some extension staff from the Division of Agriculture have basic training in GIS. However, some staff members are also competent in the use of drones, with one extension officer possessing in-depth knowledge. The Forestry Division have some staff trained in the use of basic GIS; but there are no dedicated GIS Officers in this department. However, they are involved in data collection using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The Central Statistics Office has a small GIS unit that was established to provide data collection services for the national census. Permanent staff are not engaged in the use of GIS. The GIS mapping technician interviewed from DOMLEC noted that he uses GIS software to develop database and drone imagery analysis. The Office of Disaster Management uses GIS, but not as much as they would like to, and currently relies on the Physical Planning Division for assistance in creating geospatial data. Regarding the private sector, SWIL uses data to create maps to enhance project outputs and has a GIS Specialist working on the Coastal Vulnerability Project. Humanitarian OpenStreetMap (HOT) has a Disaster Services and Climate Resilience Specialist who uses GIS tools for disaster management and climate mitigation. WUSC does not use GIS formally but does have a staff member who is knowledgeable and experienced in GIS, when required. 35 4.3 Spatial Data Education 4.3.1 Skills Stakeholders were asked to assess and categorize the geospatial skills of their departments or agencies according to the technical areas listed below: (a) Cartography/Mapmaking (b) Data collection, management (c) Data analysis - Code based, or GIU based (d) Remote Sensing This portion of the assessment is intended to provide an overview of the range and quality of geospatial skills in Dominica, with a view toward identifying areas that require more focused training; both at the individual and agency level. Agencies such as the Physical Planning Division, Lands and Surveys Division, DOMLEC, and an independent local consultant have indicated intermediate to advanced skills in Cartography/Mapmaking, Data Collection and Management, Data Analysis and Coding and Remote Sensing. The remaining agencies indicated primarily basic skills in these areas. Capacity building, and interagency support can ensure the development of these skills over time. The table below shows a breakdown of relevant geospatial skills among stakeholder agencies. Agency No. of Cartography/ Data Collection/ Data Analysis Remote Persons Mapmaking Management Sensing Physical Planning 2 Advanced Advanced Advanced Intermediate Division Lands and 3 Advanced Advanced Intermediate & Intermediate & Surveys Division Advanced Advanced Agriculture 2 Basic Basic Basic Basic Fisheries 1 Advanced Intermediate & Basic Intermediate Advanced Office of Disaster 1 Basic Basic Management Dominica 2 Basic Advanced Basic Intermediate Meteorological Services Independent GIS 1 Advanced Advanced Advanced Consultant 36 DOWASCO56 1 Basic Basic Intermediate DOMLEC 1 Advanced Advanced Intermediate SWIL 1 Advanced Advanced 4.3.2 Education The assessment of the educational background of geospatial users from stakeholder agencies is important to help understand the trends and preferences in geospatial education for Dominicans in the industry. Physical Planning Division, Lands and Surveys Division, Central Statistics Office (CSO), Public Works Public Utilities, Smith Warner International Ltd (SWIL), DOMLEC, Humanitarian OpenStreetMap (HOT), IsraAID, DOWASCO, and ShopDM have staff with high levels of educational attainment in the field of GIS and other related sciences. Other agencies, like the Office of Disaster Management, the Meteorological Services and the Environmental Health Department have expressed interest in improving the educational status of their officers with regard to geospatial capacity, as they indicate this will foster more effective collaboration with the other agencies vis-à- vis spatial data analysis and data sharing. Several of those interviewed have participated in self-guided learning opportunities in the fields of GIS, Remote Sensing, and drone related technologies. This demonstrates an appetite for self-improvement and an effort to enhance the overall skill set of their respective departments and agencies. The table below highlights the level of educational attainment among geospatial users in the stakeholder agencies interviewed. Agency/Organization # Interviewed Degree or Field of Study Additional Notes PPD 2 Post-grad in Applied GIS (1) Specialization in Remote Sensing and Environment Post-grad in Geography (1) Focus on Land Use Mapping LSD 2 Bachelors in Incorporates Cartography GIS/Geovisualisation (1) Diploma in Geospatial Operations (1) CSO 1 Bachelors in GIS Currently pursuing a Masters in Development Statistics Public Works Public 2 Bachelors in GIS and Surveying Other staff members are Utilities (2) trained in Engineering and Land Surveying 56 The respondent from DOWASCO answered this question for both their skill level and the level of their department. Responses included in the table reflect the skill levels of the department. The respondent’s skill levels were: Intermediate-Advanced for Cartography/Mapmaking, Intermediate for Data Collection and Management, and Advanced for Data Analysis. 37 Independent GIS 1 Masters in GIS and Remote Consultant Sensing WUSC 1 Bachelors in Geography and Environmental Management HOT 1 Bachelors in Geography and Double major Environment IsraAID 1 Bachelors in Geography/GIS DOWASCO 1 Post-grad diploma in Water Incorporate training in Resource Management wastewater treatment, small water systems and pumping College-level training in systems. Engineering DOMLEC 1 Post-grad certificate in GIS Training in ArcGIS SWIL 1 Bachelors in Geography Masters in Geospatial Science/GIS ShopDM 1 Masters in Computer Science Masters in Business Administration 4.4 Capacity Building 4.4.1 Training Initiatives Six out of the 11 government agencies interviewed had recently offered some level of training in geospatial technologies to their staff members. Three of the trainings were delivered in-house, while the other three relied on externally funded facilitation and trainers. Facilitated trainings are sometimes offered as shared opportunities benefitting multiple departments. Kartoza, an open-source GIS service provider, delivered a training on DomiNode that many of the government stakeholders interviewed were invited to attend through the Disaster Vulnerability Reduction Project. Another example of cross-agency collaboration was a drone training provided by the Forestry, Wildlife and Parks Division which was also attended by staff from the Physical Planning Division.57 57 This training was made possible through funding provided by GIZ and the Caribbean Aqua-Terrestrial Solutions (CATS) program. 38 The Office of Disaster Management offered training on the Tsunami Coastal Assessment Tool (TsuCAT) where attendees learned how to develop and test a tsunami model and to produce local tsunami maps, which was also attended by colleagues from the Physical Planning Division. ODM is also working closely with the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) and plans to offer training to increase capacity throughout the region for the utilization of maps for pre- and post-event decision support. ODM is also receiving support from Global Support on Development (GSD), an NGO that provides support on drone mapping. GSD has recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with CDEMA and has provided software to support drone mapping participating states in the Caribbean. There is collaboration between some departments on geospatial technical support and small-scale targeted training. The Division of Agriculture receives support from the Division of Fisheries and the Ministry of Health on detailed analysis and mapping, while the Environmental Health Department has received training from the Lands and Surveys Division to support their field data collection. The Agriculture and Fisheries Divisions strive to provide regular in-house training opportunities, such as training on internal geoinformatics systems for Agriculture staff, and on the statistical computing and graphics package, R. Fisheries staff use R for the tracking and management of fishing reserves. Agriculture and Fisheries work closely when it comes to geospatial skill building and troubleshooting. Self-guided training using online materials and short courses are a popular option for those wishing to expand their skill sets, with design and coding, using JavaScript and Python, being the most popular choices. Free and open resources such as Coursera and ESRI Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) are the most utilized online resources, while staff members of organizations such as DOWASCO and IsraAID receive reimbursements for commercial course offerings. 4.4.2 Training Priorities Respondents were asked about their interests and preferences regarding capacity building and training opportunities for skill building and career enhancement. Map Making was a popular choice, with over half of interviewees expressing interest in a combination of both traditional cartographic and web-based mapping. Interest in web-based dashboards was mentioned by a number of respondents, who emphasized their importance as tools for decision support and for outward data communication. Classic map sheets and atlases were another training interest highlighted, with a couple of respondents noting that in departments with high turnover, introductory GIS and basic management skills should always be important regular offerings. Remote Sensing techniques were highlighted as a training preference by more than half of respondents, in particular advanced techniques such as the post processing of imagery. One respondent shared that there is an over emphasis on drone piloting, with little emphasis on post-processing, which is what makes the data retrieved truly usable. There were requests for training on formal imagery interpretation across all the multispectral bands, including infrared, and training on orthorectification, to ensure that the imagery is properly 39 georeferenced for the purposes of feature digitization. Instruction on photogrammetry and how to process and analyse LiDAR were also mentioned as training interests. Drone Training was an area where many respondents expressed interest; though secondary to the more traditional GIS topics, such as map making and data analysis. Several of the departments interviewed already had good drone piloting capacity but lacked sufficient training on the post-processing of the captured imagery. More than one interviewee noted that capitalizing on the novelty of drones, and their versatility as a mode of data capture is a good way to garner interest in geotechnology, and potentially build momentum, and consequently funding support, for broader geospatial interests. It was also noted that drones are not exclusively for the capture of map data, and many areas, such as emergency response, search and rescue, or facilities could use the technology for maintenance, post disaster assessment or even rescue missions. Proficiency in Field Data Collection tools was high among stakeholders interviewed. More than half of respondents indicated that they were always on the lookout for new tools and approaches when it came to geospatial field tools, and methodologies, but, that they were conscious to not waste training opportunities on tools that would not be utilized. They would prioritize training on tools that are more efficient and easier to use. There appears to be extensive knowledge and experience with open-source field data collection tools such as KoboCollect and OpenDataKit (ODK). Those that work with field data collection tools and applications regularly, seem very well trained, but maintain an interest in staying current and up to date. There was a specific field data collection training request from the Environmental Health Department, which expressed interest in help with data collection for vector control, and for solid waste management, and field work to investigate soil percolation issues. More than half of those interviewed indicated a desire to work on their advanced skills. The requests were quite detailed, and specific to the needs of individual departments, but coding, particularly in Python, spatial database management, and the manipulation and analysis of LiDAR data were popular requests. In addition to these, there was interest in other scripting languages, open-source database management, the analysis of topographic/elevation, R, Power BI, spatial databases, map atlases, hazard vulnerability analysis using hazard data and household datasets, mobile application development (such as ReactJS), and Machine Learning. In addition, the ICT Unit requested support with; web development (MVC, ASP.NET C#, .NET Core), R/Shiny Dashboard, Kobo Server, Linux Server, databases, data modelling and SQL. 4.4.3 Capacity Building Challenges Training availability, both in terms of frequency, and variety was highlighted by several stakeholders as a challenge to skill building and maintenance. The cost associated with preferred training, and a lack of dedicated funding for these courses were also mentioned as obstacles. More than half those interviewed from government agencies cited existing hardware constraints such as out- of-date computers, field equipment and software licensing, as a restricting factor. The inability to participate fully in training due to lack of, or outdated equipment, and to replicate skills learned due to limited software access is a recurring frustration. Software licensing issues make open-source software and platforms an 40 attractive option, but there are still challenges of having the requisite computing power for some of the more advanced storage and processing. A weak domestic data culture was cited as an obstacle to support and recurring funding for positions related to GIS, and IT in general. Those with decision-making authority on the investment of resources, do not always appreciate the importance of technology, or data, and how it can inform decisions and expedite solutions. Staff motivation can also be a challenge. Stakeholders shared that some staff, both within government and the NGO community, have a certain apathy toward the need for technical training on new skills. This hesitation appears to be associated with a fear of the unknown. Several respondents indicated that there is no formal acknowledgment of GIS as a profession within current government job titles. There is no formal career track for someone who has these qualifications, or who takes it upon themselves to develop this skill set. There are plenty of positions that use GIS as part of the daily job, but often GIS tasks are listed as subordinate duties within the position description. The lack of dedicated or specialized positions are frustrating for those with these specialized skills. Several respondents noted that staff with GIS skills are often overstretched and are not able to focus on or develop the GIS aspects of their roles. The lack of dedicated ICT positions can cause the turnaround time on technical assistance to be quite long with issues of networking or software installation. The accessibility of good online options, both open and commercial, make skill building and skill maintenance more accessible, but individual learners cited the lack of dedicated work time as a major challenge to pursuing their self-guided studies (not having sufficient time dedicated to participate in classes, work on homework, or, convey existing skills to colleagues). This is further frustrated by a lack of internal support and funding for paid options. Many interviewees mentioned that there is not enough exposure to GIS technology domestically, and that most colleagues with advanced skills, had to leave Dominica to acquire them. 4.5 Links to Academia and the Pipeline for Local Talent 4.5.1 Internships through Dominica State College Dominica State College (DSC) is the only National Public Higher Education Institution in the country. It offers thirty-one academic majors in the Arts, Sciences and Technical Education at the associate’s and/or bachelor’s degree levels. Based on interviews with government stakeholders, it was confirmed that DSC students from the Geography, Engineering, Agriculture and Environmental Health programs have all participated in the internship program in recent years and have been assigned to government departments that work on or are interested in GIS, though not all the interns work in this capacity. While some placements are paid internships, many are unpaid. Of the departments, units and utility companies interviewed, six entities identified existing relationships with DSC regarding internships. 41 The Physical Planning Division regularly provides guest lectures focused on GIS to the Geography program at DSC. They also take two student interns from the program each year. These students gain exposure to desktop GIS and fieldwork. There have not been any direct hires to the Physical Planning Division from this internship program, but former interns have gone on to be hired by the Central Statistics Office. The Lands and Surveys Division also participates in lectures for the Engineering program at DSC on topics such as surveying and drafting. These connections have led to students interning with LSD, some of which were ultimately hired. The ICT Unit also reported receiving interns from the College. The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Social Services has hosted interns from DSC. The College has an Environmental Health program with an internship requirement. However, the scope of the internships with the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Social Services did not include GIS or related activities. The students from DSC also have connections to Dominica’s utility companies. DOWASCO takes students on a semi regular basis as part of “job attachment� with DSC. In the past, they have also accepted master’s degree students working on water-related research, though this has been on a case-by-case basis due to the sensitivity of the data they work with. DOMLEC noted that the interns they receive from DSC over summer break receive payment for their engagement and are often included in field work to collect GIS data. DOMLEC has also hired from its pool of DSC student interns in the past few years. 4.5.2 Local Pipeline for GIS Talent Stakeholders had a broad range of experiences with the DSC internship program. While some departments, such as DOMLEC, had great experiences, noting that the interns they received were very skilled and motivated to learn, other agencies did not find the interns to have the skills or interest to be successful in longer term roles. While an in-depth look into the structure of the DSC internships program was outside the scope of this Assessment, conversations with stakeholders indicate that students are coming from many different academic programs within DSC, with varying levels of knowledge and exposure to GIS. GIS is not a formal part of the current Geography curriculum at DSC, apart from occasional guest lectures delivered by GIS professionals from the Physical Planning Department. Around 2010, the Geography program did have a core GIS faculty. Unfortunately, this is no longer the case, suggesting that previous students were better positioned for further educational and professional opportunities in GIS than those of today. This is a missed opportunity, as the GoCD is looking to cultivate and support GIS talent in Dominica. While students studying Agriculture and Engineering sometimes have access to GIS as part of their technical training, it is unclear whether these academic programs at DSC incorporate GIS into their curriculum. 42 5. Data 5.1 Fundamental Datasets Fundamental Datasets (FDS) are datasets that serve as a reference for the production of other geospatial datasets. FDS also represents the minimum geospatial data requirement for all sectors in a particular jurisdiction. Figure 1 shows the relationship between FDS and sector-specific data 58. There is general consensus internationally as to which datasets are considered FDS. The UN-GGIM offers the list detailed in the table below.59 58 MSDI Manual, World Bank 59 Fundamental Geospatial Data version 1 of the Pan American Institute for History and Geography: https://geo.cepal.org/en/contenido/categoria-normas/nacional/archivos/pdf/FGD%20IPGH%20may%202017%20ENG.pdf 43 Name of theme Comments Geodetic Reference This is for geo-referencing the rest of the themes; it is the fundamental data for framework fundamental data. Relief Digital Elevation Models (DTM and/or DEM) include underwater relief or at depths, also contours and labeled spot heights, etc. Administrative units At various levels and with the hierarchical structure unique geographic foundation upon which a large quantity of thematic data is referenced. Hydrography Includes seas, oceans, the coastline and associated features, also related objects made by humans (dams, dykes, containing walls, canals, etc.) Communications Includes all means of transport (by highway, railway, air, sea, cable car, etc.) and all networks associated installations Population Cities, towns, villages, residential zones and any built features where people live permanently (barracks, hospitals, prisons, etc.) Cadastral records Geographic dataset that describes relations concerning rights and obligations between persons and real estate properties. On some occasions, this includes the record of real estate property, depending on the country. Addresses Physical addresses including postcodes Geographic names Although geographic features frequently have their name as an attribute, it is useful to have available a catalogue of geographic names, especially for those features without a clear geometry associated (mountain ranges, sites along a route, etc.). Images Ideally as satellite and/or aerial orthoimages. Land cover Although this is less useful for acting to geo-reference other data, it can serve as a cartographic backdrop to give context or as surfaces upon which other attributes can be placed. Based on a rapid assessment of geospatial data available in Dominica, particularly from open data existing on the DomiNode and GeoCRIS platforms, Dominica has instances (or operational versions) of all Fundamental Datasets except for addresses. The lack of a national addressing system is common among many countries in the Eastern Caribbean. FDS Availability Comments Yes Partial No Geodetic Reference framework x Both Dominica BWI 1945 and UTM 20N are available, though UTM is the main CRS used Relief x Lidar topography and bathymetry, contours Administrative units x Parishes, communities, town Hydrography x Rivers, coastline, water bodies Population x Towns, enumeration districts Cadastral records x Public land parcels are fully digitized but private parcels have not been fully digitized and georeferenced Addresses x Not available Geographic names x Topographic labels 44 Land cover x Land cover mapping is available from 2015. However, this is not based on high resolution imagery. Forest cover type was also classified using Google Earth Engine. Imagery x Satellite imagery, aerial orthophoto, drone imagery 5.2 Data Availability and Accessibility Previous assessments of geospatial data availability have been conducted including the DomiNode Project Completion Report produced by Kartoza and Piensa under the DomiNode contract. Challenges associated with poor data management such as lack of data standardisation, lack of metadata and the lack of data catalogues make data difficult to access. Additionally, the absence of approved geospatial data-sharing policies compounds the issue of data sharing and access. As noted in the Institutional Arrangements section of this report, the official process for requesting data from a government agency entails the submission of a written request to the Permanent Secretary of the relevant ministry. This is then filtered down to the agency within the ministry that holds this dataset. In practice, GIS users often request data directly from each other, and this data is usually shared when a working relationship has been established between the agencies. Agencies such as the Central Statistics Office (CSO) tend to be more cautious about data sharing to avoid violating the provisions of the Census and Statistics Act, which stresses the importance of anonymity in any data or publications released by the CSO. Without an established and well-documented process for geospatial data sharing, the decision on whether data should be shared is considered on a case-by-case basis and this makes data sharing less efficient, hence the default position is not to share data, particularly where the use case is not well understood. Most agencies still store geospatial data in shapefile format, which limits the scope of multi-user editing, versioning and other desired functionality. Only DOMLEC indicated that they use spatial databases in the form of a Microsoft SQL instance managed with ESRI Enterprise GIS software. Some stakeholders indicated an interest in using PostGIS following training that they received under the DomiNode implementation initiative. In November 2012, the Government of the Commonwealth of Dominica (GoCD), supported by the World Bank Open Data for Resilience Initiative was able to launch the data management platform, DomiNode. The current iteration of the DomiNode is based on the GeoNode open-source spatial data management platform and is hosted on an Ubuntu Server (Linux) Operating System and can be viewed publicly.60 DomiNode has been maintained and upgraded since its establishment both by staff of the GoCD and external consultants including a team from Piensa funded under the DVRP. DomiNode is currently the main local spatial data-sharing platform which is an instance of GeoNode. The platform currently hosts 71 layers consisting of 7 raster layers and 64 vector layers. 61 DomiNode contains a minIO/S3 interface that is used to manage access to LiDAR products such as the LAS point cloud DEM and Ortho imagery. 60 DomiNode can be accessed at: http://dominode.dm 61 Checked on August 18, 2023 to confirm 71 layers, checked on October 13, 2023 to confirm seven raster layers and 64 vector layers. 45 The platform also contains a viewer for LiDAR Point cloud data for Dominica powered by Potree. 62 The portal has a web map containing the locations of the four stations within the local Continuously Operating Reference Station (CORS) network, with reference stations located in Portsmouth, Marigot, Roseau and La Plaine. However, the interface does not appear to facilitate the download of data from these stations. According to the DomiNode Project Completion Report, this data was previously accessible via FTP.63 The Lands and Surveys Division has now established a new server for GNSS corrections using Trimble Pivot which is a commercial software package used for managing CORS networks.64 Since the software requires periodic payment of license fees, the sustainability of this platform is contingent upon the Division securing an annual budgetary allocation to cover the maintenance of the license. This supersedes the access though DomiNode. However, since the service is only currently available internally within LSD, other agencies maintain subscriptions to commercial GNSS correction services from Trimble such as Catalyst. This service provides both real time and post processed kinematic corrections (RTK and PPK). RTK and PPK are workflows for using fixed GNSS base stations as reference points to correct the accuracy of data collected with GNSS receivers either in real-time (RTK) or after the survey has already been completed (PPK). Most of the datasets on DomiNode are also accessible via the GeoCRIS platform hosted by the Caribbean Disaster and Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA).65 GeoCRIS is a subset of the Caribbean Risk Information System (CRIS). The data on GeoCRIS can be accessed without signing up for an account and without making any specific request for data. Please see Appendix 3 for a listing of existing datasets for Dominica from a data inventory conducted by the Digital Earth for a Resilient Caribbean project in June 2023. 5.3 Metadata Metadata can be understood as data that describes the contents of data. It contains basic information about the origins of data such as its name, date of collection, collecting agencies, quality and spatial information. Metadata standards can be understood as a component of data standards which specifies standardized descriptions for documenting metadata.66 The storage of metadata associated with spatial datasets is not yet standard across the board in Dominica. Some agencies such as Physical Planning, Lands and Surveys, the Division of Forestry and the Central Statistics Office maintain metadata for their datasets, but this is not the case for all agencies. As a GeoNode portal, DomiNode can store and disseminate metadata for the layers hosted on it. As a component of their consultancy with the GoCD, Kartoza and Piensa Labs developed and submitted draft metadata standards for DomiNode. The detailed standard addresses structural, descriptive and administrative metadata. The proposed metadata profile for Dominica is based on ISO19115. The draft schema focuses on capturing the following mandatory metadata: 62 https://github.com/potree/potree 63 DomiNode Project Completion Report 64 The new server for GNSS corrections can be accessed at: https://gnsscors.gov.dm/ 65 The GeoCRIS platform can be accessed at: https://geocris2.cdema.org 66 World Bank City Planning Labs Initiative, 2021. 46 Metadata Category Description Title Precise and understandable layer title Abstract Short description about the layer Publication Date Date the layer was published License Conditions under which the data can be used and redistributed Type Type of the geospatial data in the layer Keywords Words that can be used when searching for the layer (place, temporal, theme, etc.) DomiNode also makes provisions for several optional metadata elements on ownership, some spatial attributes such as the projection system and extent, language and contact information for the owner or responsible party. To date, datasets on DomiNode contain very little metadata. However, some metadata can be found for these datasets on the GeoCRIS platform which uses a similar metadata profile based on ISO 19115. 5.4 Data Standards Standards can serve as a tool to ensure interoperability and usability of geospatial datasets by various stakeholders.67 The UN-GGIM defines its standards to be “a documented agreement between providers and consumers, established by consensus that provides rules guidelines or characteristics ensuring that materials products and services are fit for purpose�.68 5.4.1 Data Format Most agencies in Dominica store vector data in individual shapefile format. Raster data is stored mainly in GeoTIFF format, while other data such as KoboCollect surveys or census household-level data is downloaded in CSV or spreadsheet formats for future conversion into GIS formats. This means that most datasets in Dominica can be viewed or manipulated without the use of commercial software. However, inherent limitations of the shapefile format affect the efficiency of data management within agencies. Some of these limitations include: i) lack of simultaneous multiuser editing, ii) field names cannot exceed 10 characters, iii) lack of support for non-English characters, iv) inability to store versioning information, and v) inability to store topological and other information on the relationships between features. Agencies should consider the storage of data within a spatial database such as PostGIS and consider the adoption of a more modern vector dataset format such as GeoPackage. 5.4.2 Coordinate Reference System (CRS) A coordinate reference system (CRS) defines how to associate two-dimensional coordinates within geospatial data to locations on the Earth’s surface. The choice of CRS to is based on factors including the extent of the area being mapped, location, the intended use of the data and the CRS of existing base layers in the area. The 67 World Bank City Planning Labs Initiative, 2021. 68 A Guide to the Role of Standards in Geospatial Information Management , UN-GGIM, 2015, retrieved from: https://ggim.un.org/documents/standards%20guide%20for%20unggim%20-%20final.pdf 47 Dominica 1945 Coordinate Reference System was originally the only official local CRS. Most GIS users no longer use this coordinate reference system. Most new data collected in Dominica is now stored in WGS84 either as EPSG 4326 (Geographic) or EPSG 32620 (UTM 20N, Projected). Additionally, as a result of an amendment of the Land Surveys Act in 2007, UTM 20N can be used as a Coordinate Reference System for land surveying in Dominica. 5.5 Data Storage Many agencies do not have a centralised server for storing their files. The agencies that store data on centralised servers have stated that these servers are managed by the ICTU except for DOMLEC which manage their own centralised server. In most cases, data is stored on individual workstations. Some agencies store large datasets such as the LiDAR data on external hard drives or Network Attached Storage (NAS) Drives. Databases are not widely used for the storage of spatial data but some of the GIS Users have received training in the use of spatial databases (PostGIS) under the DVRP-funded DomiNode Initiative. Some agencies cannot access the GoCD network due to relocation following Hurricane Maria and/or inadequate network infrastructure. However, the ICT Unit states that more than 90% of government offices are connected to the Government Wide Area Network (G-WAN). DropBox, WeTransfer and other services are used for sharing data with other users once requested. The ICT Unit generally discourages the storage of GoCD data in the cloud, but this is not strictly enforced. Some of the software and services used by agencies involved the short- or long-term hosting of data online. Agencies such as Lands and Surveys, DOMLEC and the Division of Forestry have indicated that they lost data because as a result of Hurricane Maria’s initial damage to their offices and the subsequent looting of equipment. 48 6. Systems 6.1 Telecommunications infrastructure and network capacities Telecommunications infrastructure in Dominica has undergone major changes in the past decade. The destruction of infrastructure due to Tropical Storm Erika in 2015 and Hurricane Maria in 2017 has forced providers to replace legacy systems and invest in increasing the resilience of their infrastructure. 69 Network operators have also consolidated through acquisitions of smaller entities, leaving Digicel and Flow (Cable and Wireless) as the predominant service providers. Overhead fiber-optic cable and high bandwidth microwave links, owned by Digicel, and trenched fiber-optic, owned by Flow, make up the backbone of Dominica’s telecommunication network. High-speed internet has also become available to many communities in Dominica, both urban and rural.70 Free to use community Wi-Fi networks and computer resource centres have also been established across Dominica with the support of the Universal Service Fund, which uses licensing fees paid by telecom providers to fund projects boosting access to internet connectivity.71 Prior to Hurricane Maria, network connectivity to individual government offices was through a variety of providers with Flow being predominant. No G-WAN covering all offices existed and bandwidth was limited in most offices. Hurricane Maria destroyed much of the network infrastructure within the GoCD, including the government data centre at the Treasury Building. Post-storm civil unrest also resulted in the disappearance of network and computer hardware from many GoCD offices. Priorities for rebuilding post-Maria were set in the GoCD’s Climate Resilience and Recovery Plan (CRRP) and included the creation of a, “Resilient modern ICT network� which was envisioned to include overhead and underground fiber-optic cable, high tech data centres, creation of a G-WAN, and expanded e-government services.72 In 2019, the GoCD invested in the digitization of their operations through the creation of a G-WAN and Data Centres. This investment was made as part of a 15-year contract between Digicel and the GoCD which made Digicel the main provider of government telecommunications services.73 In 2021, the GoCD began implementation of the Caribbean Digital Transformation Project (CARDTP) which seeks to improve e- government services. Both initiatives are in line with the CRRP and have shown progress. New government data centers and a G-WAN have been established and extended to 90% of GoCD offices, with the intention of reaching 100% of GoCD offices when completed. 69 Dominica Post- Disaster Needs Assessment: https://www.gfdrr.org/en/dominica-hurricane-maria-post-disaster- assessment-and-support-recovery-planning 70 https://ntrcdominica.dm/3d-flip-book/2020-annual-report/ p.13 71 https://www.ectel.int/regulatory-framework/universal-service-fund/ 72 https://climate-laws.org/documents/dominica-climate-resilience-and-recovery-plan-2020-2030_bda0?id=dominica- climate-resilience-and-recovery-plan-2020-2030_e34a 73 Dominica News Online (2019) https://dominicanewsonline.com/news/homepage/news/digicel-and-dca-government- sign-200-million-contract/ 49 The G-WAN is based on a fiber optic backbone offering gigabit speeds with low latency to connected offices. This network is operated by the central ICT Unit, currently within the Ministry of Works, Public Utilities, and the Digital Economy. The ICT Unit is responsible for all ICT related services within the GoCD, including the network hardware, computer equipment at all GoCD offices, phone systems, cybersecurity (network permissions), data centres, web and e-government services, and software procurement and maintenance.74 This wide range of services make the ICTU solely responsible for most information technology services within the GoCD. Digicel also provides technical support services on the G-WAN in cases where the ICTU is unable to resolve the problem—usually with network-related issues. Outside of the ICTU’s domain are the statutory bodies (DOMLEC and DOWASCO), hospitals, and the Dominica State College, which operate their own ICT infrastructure with in- house staff. These organizations are not connected to the G-WAN. The transition to the G-WAN is ongoing and has not yet resulted in a system with a high uptime. In a survey of GIS Users conducted in June 2023, 45% reported that they were experiencing challenges and limitations in their network connectivity. These issues were found to stem from several causes, some technological and others related to user expectations. In some cases, wireless connectivity was found to be lacking due to the placement of wireless repeaters, or inadequate numbers of repeaters for the location. In other cases, users were frustrated over the lack of access to network settings (the ICTU controls network permissions across the GoCD) and blocking of websites. Static public IP addresses for the GoCD are also managed by the ICTU. The Unit has a limited pool of these addresses and has faced challenges in deploying public facing web applications due to a lack of available addresses. Finally, power outages have caused data loss and network outages due to a lack of reliable Uninterrupted Power Supplies (UPS) and adequate backup generators for government services. A second data centre is currently being commissioned, which will provide improved redundancy. However, this second data centre is located near the first, so it will not provide much resilience in the face of disruptions which impact the Roseau area. The G-WAN does not make use of off-island backups of its services. In the case where the data centre is offline, most GoCD services and websites are also rendered inoperable. This is in line with a desire of the GoCD to keep government data on servers housed in Dominica for security purposes. This has had a negative impact on the uptime and reputation of services, and agencies interviewed expressed a lack of trust in government services due to a lack of reliability. In summary, government communications infrastructure has improved significantly in terms of speed and bandwidth in the last decade. These improvements have enabled GoCD officers to make use of data intensive applications, including data heavy GIS applications involving point clouds and high-resolution imagery and terrain models. However, major challenges remain in the provision of reliable and resilient network services due to a lack of reliable backup power, reliable Wi-Fi, and off-site data backup. User education and management is also lacking as network security protocols are not well understood or appreciated as some users expressed that the network restrictions were impeding their work. 74 https://publicworks.gov.dm/divisions/information-and-communication-technology-ict-unit 50 6.2 Hardware Computer and server hardware is centrally managed by the ICT Unit for all GoCD offices, excluding statutory bodies. Where government budgets are involved, acquisition of hardware is undertaken by the ICTU. However, agencies also acquire hardware through donor funded initiatives, sometimes without the knowledge of the ICTU. For these cases, the ICTU will determine whether it has the resources to manage this hardware and whether it can be safely connected to the G-WAN. The acquisition of specialized hardware for GIS applications was reported to be a challenge as the ICTU primarily provides general purpose workstations which are unsuitable for GIS heavy applications. Availability of adequate hardware for GIS varies across the public service. In a survey of GIS users in the GoCD, approximately 30% of responses indicated significant hardware challenges. General purpose desktop workstations are readily available for use but specialized equipment, particularly mobile devices such as laptops and tablets, are not readily available. These devices are required for mobile data collection and for use with drones as ground stations. Agencies have limited hardware budgets and sometimes rely on donor funds to purchase specialized equipment. This solution has not resulted in a sustainable budget for GIS related hardware, as the maintenance and replacement costs of this new hardware are not budgeted for. To compensate for a lack of hardware, some agencies have used cloud computing through platforms like Google Earth Engine and ArcGIS Online to conduct analyses. Server infrastructure consists of a hyper-converged infrastructure hosted at the government data centre. This system provides file storage for all connected agencies and supports deployment of virtual machines as well as containerized applications hosted by Docker and Kubernetes. This system came online in 2022 and hosts most government web applications. Interviews with GoCD agencies indicated that most do not use the data centre for the backup of their data, preferring instead to store data on external hard drives. It is the intention of the CARDTP to establish a government wide document management system which would serve as a central data store, but this initiative has not yet been implemented. Individual servers within some departments also exist, for example the Dominica Meteorological Services (DMS) has a server hosting a hydromet platform.75 This server and the associated software are managed by the ICTU, in conjunction with the contractor who installed the server software. The Office of Disaster Management (ODM) has a server to collect and process seismic data from the national network of seismometers, which is managed by the University of West Indies Seismic Research Centre (UWI-SRC) and the ICTU. Neither agency has allocated budget for the upkeep of these servers and data on these servers is backed up internationally via the GOES platform (for hydromet) and at UWI-SRC (for seismic data). Hardware support is provided exclusively by ICTU technicians. For specialized hardware, the ICTU assigns one of their technicians to be trained on the maintenance of that hardware. This is the case for the Continuously Operating Reference Sites (CORS) network. CORS are highly specialized devices meant for land surveying applications and are maintained by an officer at the ICTU on behalf of the Lands and Surveys Division. Outside 75 https://monitoring.weather.gov.dm/Dominica/index.php 51 of the ICTU, there are no persons assigned to the maintenance of hardware and no ICTU officers are assigned exclusively to any one department or area. This lack of exclusivity and dependence on the ICT Unit has created some issues for units which would require 24/7 support (ODM and DMS are examples), as well as those with very specialized hardware needs which require substantial training to learn. The ICTU indicated that they are barely adequately staffed to meet its current demands. In other OECS countries such as Saint Lucia, ICT officers are assigned exclusively to one technical unit, which allows them to specialize in the technologies required for that unit while also being affiliated with a central IT agency. 6.3 Software Based on the June 2023 survey of geospatial software availability and user satisfaction, respondents shared that it was fair to poor. Subsequent interviews revealed that users had issues related to the accessibility of software and associated training opportunities on the use of this software. Several agencies commented that they understand the potential benefits of adding geospatial technologies and data to their workflows but were unable to do so for a variety of reasons. Barriers include the purchase and upkeep costs of software licenses, lack of availability of training, lack of a strategy for mainstreaming new software, lack of legislation to support digitization of processes and data sharing, and finally a lack of suitable hardware to run the required software. Geospatial data availability in Dominica increased substantially over the past decade due to efforts by the GoCD to collect baseline spatial data such as aerial imagery and LiDAR, the adoption of drone based mapping, and increased availability of open source and satellite data. These new data sources and technologies have associated software needs which have not been fully or sustainably addressed according to interviews with government stakeholders. The adoption of new geospatial technology has depended partially on donor support for the purchase of software and associated training. This has been the case for Desktop GIS software (particularly ESRI products), drone mapping software (Pix4D, Drone Deploy), Web GIS (ArcGIS Online), and CAD and surveying packages (AutoCAD, Carlson Surveys, Trimble Business Center). This software is proprietary and carry a recurring license cost which donors will usually not fund, and government budgets have not been used to fund. This is not the case for statutory bodies and the private sector. For example, DOMLEC pays the recurring costs for an ArcGIS Enterprise license. The GoCD’s investments in network connectivity and hardware have not been matched by investments in geospatial software, although some investments have been made, particularly in land surveying software to support land acquisitions (Trimble Pivot and Trimble Business Center). The Ministry of Public Works also has purchased Trimble surveying software as well as software to support LiDAR surveying (Terrasolid) with a LiDAR drone purchased by the Road Surveys Division. It is notable that the Trimble Pivot platform has not been made accessible by the Lands and Surveys Division to the Ministry of Public Works even though they also use Trimble surveying equipment. As an alternative to proprietary software, agencies have been exploring the use of free and open-source software (FOSS). This has been most widely used in desktop GIS through the QGIS package, and to support mobile data collection and mapping using the Kobo Toolbox application, with the ICTU deploying Kobo Server 52 locally. Survey Solutions has also been deployed locally to support mobile data collection and mapping for statistical purposes. The use of R to create geospatially enabled dashboards has been demonstrated by the ICTU. While there is some success with FOSS, the uptake is complicated by a steeper learning curve and the fact that many government staff were trained on proprietary software packages and have developed workflows using these packages. Despite a desire for training on open-source software, time constraints impede self- training efforts. Full uptake of this software would require a change strategy, endorsed by department heads, which includes a comprehensive training program and updates to work processes to address these challenges and optimize software utilization. In the GIS user survey, 14% of agencies reported relying on custom-built software for geospatial tasks. These agencies also reported facing challenges in further developing their core infrastructure and maintaining the software due to limited resources. The ICTU has been developing web applications in house to support specific use cases of GoCD agencies. This has included geospatial web applications primarily based on Kobo Toolbox, such as the Hurricane Shelter Management app developed for ODM.76 Software development capabilities are centralized at the ICTU for the moment; however, the planned GIS Unit will likely include persons with some capacity for the development of geospatial software, and arrangements around responsibilities will need to be made with the ICTU. The Unified Land Information System (ULIS) is another customized application which was meant to manage the government’s land information. ULIS was developed by external consultants funded by a European Union project. This application is based on an extension to ESRI software and was meant to be used by the Land Registry, ICTU, Lands and Surveys Division and the Physical Planning Division. However, its use remains restricted to the Land Registry and its geospatial capabilities are unutilized as it is only being used to store scanned land registry applications. The server for ULIS was also destroyed during Hurricane Maria and the application was offline until recently. Adoption of its geospatial capabilities has failed as Lands and Surveys Division staff felt it created additional work for them. There are important lessons to learn from ULIS around the need for proper software requirements, a change management strategy, leadership capable of executing such a strategy, resources for mainstreaming, and finally the need for a reliable platform with full backups. The table below highlights the hardware and software used for GIS by various agencies and statutory bodies. Agency Mobile Data Desktop Server / Cloud- Spatial Other Relevant Collection Software Based Software Databases Applications Software Used Ministry of Housing and Urban Development Physical Kobo Collect QGIS, ArcGIS Kobo Server, ESRI PostgreSQL / MapBoxJS Planning Desktop, Trimble ArcGIS Online, PostGIS, (Javascript) Division Pathfinder, Google Earth Microsoft Access Pix4D, Drone Engine, DomiNode Deploy 76 https://sheltermanagement.odm.gov.dm/ 53 Lands and Trimble QGIS, Carlson ESRI ArcGIS Online, n/a Trimble Pivot Surveys Terrasync, RTK Survey, Trimble DomiNode (GNSS – CORS)77 Division System, CORS Business Center, receivers Drone Deploy, Ebee eMotion 3, Pix4D Ministry of Public Works, Public Utilities and Digital Economy Technical Trimble Carlson Surveys, Trimble Cloud n/a n/a Services handheld GPS Trimble Division units, Trimble Business Center, R12 Base and AutoCAD, Rover RTK GNSS Terrasolid ICT Unit Kobo Collect QGIS, R Studio Kobo Server, Microsoft SQL HTML, PHP, DomiNode, ULIS Server, Javascript, SQL, PostgreSQL / Python, R, .NET PostGIS, (C#, VB) MongoDB Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy Division of Survey ArcGIS, QGIS DomiNode n/a n/a Agriculture Solutions, Kobo Collect Fisheries OpenDataKit QGIS, ArcGIS, DomiNode n/a JavaScript SQL, Division (ODK), Kobo Drone Deploy Python, Drone Collect Deploy Forestry, Kobo Collect, QGIS ESRI ArcGIS Online, n/a n/a Wildlife and ODK, Mangrove Google Earth Parks Division Mapping App Engine, UNDP – forestry resource assessment platform Other Government Agencies Central Survey ArcGIS Pro MS Access Cloud Storage SPSS, Excel Statistics Solutions, from ArcGIS Office ArcGIS Collector, Online ESRI Survey 123 Dominica n/a QGIS NOAA GOES, n/a MCH (WMO Meteorological DEWETRA, Meteorological, Services Hydromet Portal Climatological and Hydrological database management system) Office of Kobo Collect QGIS GeoCRIS, Kobo n/a n/a Disaster Server (local/IOM) Management Statutory Bodies DOMLEC ESRI Collector / ArcGIS Desktop / ArcGIS Online, Microsoft SQL n/a Survey123 ArcPro DomiNode Server with ESRI Enterprise Extensions 77 https://gnsscors.gov.dm/ 54 DOWASCO GPS data QGIS ESRI ArcGIS Online, n/a n/a collector DomiNode (unknown type) 6.4 Geoportals and Platforms A variety of online platforms are used by GIS users to access, analyse, and share spatial data. In Dominica, there is a notable trend among agencies in the utilisation of technology. Approximately 60% of surveyed GIS agencies indicated they had utilized server-based software solutions. These can tools enable efficient data sharing, dissemination, and accessibility across government departments and with the public. Efficient data sharing is crucial for data driven decision making, which the GoCD highlighted as one of its main priorities in the CRRP. The GoCD has been developing its own spatial data sharing platform, DomiNode, since 2012 when requirements were established at a workshop with government stakeholders.78 The platform is based on a customized version of the GeoNode software package and has gone through several different versions since its establishment. The platform is currently hosted at the government data centre and contains data layers from various government agencies, some of which are publicly accessible and others which are only accessible to specific users or agencies. DomiNode is managed by the Physical Planning Division and the ICTU. The PPD is responsible for data, metadata, and users and the ICTU is responsible for the hosting of the software and data. This arrangement has been set through a cabinet decision and one officer is assigned from each agency with responsibility for DomiNode. This platform is also supported by a joint venture of Kartoza and Piensa, who have been assisting in moving the platform to the government data center and training GoCD staff in the use and maintenance of the latest version of the system. The uptime of DomiNode is currently not near 100% and unfortunately the platform is prone to outages. This has created a reputation for DomiNode as being unreliable. Reliability is improving however as the ICTU refines their operations at the new data centre. Usability and awareness of the DomiNode were noted as issues by interviewees. The organization of datasets needs improvement, as they are currently named with non-identifiable titles and lack the necessary metadata for data interpretation. Categorising datasets, as per the built-in standards compatible (ISO19115) metadata template, would enhance usability and facilitate better data exploration. Procedures also need to be established for the creation of user accounts and uploading of datasets to DomiNode, as agencies have stated that they lack access or ability to upload their datasets. Agencies have also encountered challenges related to limited training on DomiNode. While several rounds of training have been provided by the Kartoza/Piensa team, as well as on-site support, this has not resulted in a competent user base. Noted issues are the lack of regular use of the platform to reinforce the training, the steep learning curve of the provided training and a lack of documentation on DomiNode as to the use of the platform. 78 Creating Dominica's Spatial Data Management Platform "DomiNode" from the Ground-up (2014) 55 In addition to DomiNode, an instance of MinIO has been deployed by the ICTU to facilitate the sharing of large datasets such as aerial imagery and LiDAR point clouds. The MinIO is connected with DomiNode and was intended to be used as a staging platform for reviewing data prior to uploading it, in addition to allowing access to large datasets. A local instance of Kobo Server, supporting Kobo Collect, has also been deployed by the ICTU.79 In the interviews, several agencies noted that they use Kobo Collect for field data collection. However, not all agencies make use of the local instance and instead use the global KoboToolbox platform. The broad adaptation of this software shows the need for spatial data platforms in Dominica. The ICTU has plans to connect the Kobo Server instance with DomiNode to share the results of mobile data collection campaigns. Non-local platforms are also used by agencies. These include ESRI’s ArcGIS Online platform, as well as OpenStreetMap, Google Earth Engine, the Caribbean Institute of Hydrology and Meteorology DEWETRA platform, the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) GeoCRIS platform, and the OpenStreetMap (OSM) platform. Sharing of government data to external platforms is not endorsed by the ICTU, however it is necessary for agencies to provide regular reporting on national accounts, environmental variables, sustainable development goals, and other benchmarks. 79 https://kobo.dominica.gov.dm 56 Conclusions and Recommendations Based on the results of the geospatial capacity assessment, there is widespread recognition of the importance of geospatial data and technology for national development. The inclusion of a Centre of Excellence for Data in national strategic plans, and the decision to establish a central GIS Unit, are major steps towards better management of national geospatial resources. To ensure that the GIS Unit is sustainable and responsive to user needs, it must be supported by policy and guided by technical working groups. Such steps are critical to define the GIS Unit’s priorities and work plan. Geospatial capacity within Dominica has increased in recent years. This progress has been made through investments in information technology, and legislative changes, such as the amendment of the Land Surveyor’s Act recognising a modern Coordinate Reference System. This specific report identified the legislative, policy and procedural reforms that are needed for the country to realize the full benefits of a geospatial ecosystem. Consultations with geospatial professionals in Dominica revealed their proficiency in the use of a wide range of geospatial tools including hardware, software, and online platforms. However, many of them noted a lack of opportunities for career advancement. Geospatial professionals shared that they have difficulty obtaining the type of training they need to upskill or to keep current with knowledge and best practices on relevant topics and tools. While many stakeholders noted that GIS tasks were part of their job description, they were often secondary to other responsibilities. There is a need for dedicated formal GIS roles with potential for career advancement. Dominica has many of the fundamental spatial datasets (base data layers) required to effectively perform GIS analysis. It possesses high resolution, cloud free imagery and LiDAR-based digital elevation data exists for over sixty percent of the island, captured from both manned and unmanned aerial systems. However, like most Eastern Caribbean countries, Dominica does not have an addressing system and currently does not have a complete cadastre of private lands. Although a lot of hazard data exists, most was produced prior to the availability of high-resolution data and is based on datasets which may contain serious errors and approximations. Data on exposure and vulnerability of physical infrastructure is also incomplete and outdated. As a result of Hurricane Maria in 2017, the telecommunications infrastructure of Dominica sustained significant damage. The GoCD, in partnership with Digicel, invested in the creation of a G-WAN and Data Centre. The implementation of this network is ongoing and up to ninety percent of government offices are now connected. Since the network is still in the implementation phase, some offices have experienced disruptions in service which has hampered their ability to retrieve and share data. Management of this network, data center and all IT related systems within the GoCD is the responsibility of the ICT Unit. While the ICTU is able to provide some specialized support to geospatial applications, it is stretched thin given the level of staffing and the breadth of its mandate. Collaboration between the future GIS Unit and existing ICTU will be key to the realization of the GoCD’s goals with respect to data and the use of geospatial technologies. DomiNode is a functional spatial data portal that is underutilized due to lack of confidence in its stability, low participation in terms of uploads of fundamental datasets, poorly documented metadata, and infrequent 57 updates to the datasets already featured on the platform. Platform stability has significantly improved with the deployment of the software at the government data center. A consultancy is continuing to improve the platform and provide training to users. A cabinet decision has been made to appoint a manager for DomiNode and eventually move the ownership of the platform to the GIS Unit, with the server and network infrastructure for this platform continuing to be managed by the ICTU. Dominica currently has a solid foundation upon which a robust geospatial infrastructure can be established; but this will require the personnel and resources to coordinate and implement the interventions required for the enhancement of Dominica’s geospatial future. Based on analysis of the key findings outlined in this report, the Assessment Team wishes to share the following recommendations with the GoCD: Recommendation Priority A central GIS Unit tasked with coordinating and leading the implementation of activities to enhance the geospatial data ecosystem should be established. A GIS technical working 1 High group, with representation from agencies and stakeholders who use geospatial technology should be set up to support the development of the work programme of the GIS Unit. Data sharing and inter-agency coordination on geospatial data management should be improved. The use of the DomiNode portal should be encouraged by sharing more 2 High metadata on available datasets, having more frequently updated datasets available, and improving its reliability/availability, thus enhancing the confidence of users in the portal. Due to Dominica’s high level of exposure to natural hazards and climate change impacts, the collection of data on exposure of infrastructure should be prioritized. Updated and 3 High detailed data on the location and attributes of buildings will facilitate the use of spatial analysis to support decision making related to enhancing Dominica’s resilience. Further training of GIS professionals should be prioritized, as it will not only support their professional growth but will also further strengthen the capabilities of their agencies 4 and/or organizations. Training priorities identified include map making, remote sensing, High field data collection and more advance skills such as programming, spatial data management and the use of Machine Learning tools. The Government should allocate recurrent budgetary allowances for the maintenance of 5 geospatial tools and to support continuous professional development and upskilling of High personnel within the geospatial sector. The Government should review roles currently held by GIS professionals and consider 6 changing some of these roles into permanent GIS positions. Such dedicated positions Medium would help to establish clearer career paths for those with GIS skills. Conversations should be initiated between the ICT Unit regarding their guidance on cloud 7 data storage. Many GIS professionals working for the GoCD need better data storage Medium options and without them may resort to less secure alternatives. The GIS curriculum within different academic departments at Dominica State College and 8 the structure of the internship program should be reviewed and further enhanced to Medium increase the local pipeline for GIS talent. 58 Appendix 1: Stakeholders Engaged Appendix 1 provides a roster of the GIS professionals who were engaged as part of this Assessment, by survey and/or key informant interview. GIS Professionals Engaged Name Position / Title Department / Organization Sector 1 Lyn Baron Development Control Physical Planning Division Public Officer Ministry of Housing and Urban Development 2 Iric Stephenson Technical Officer Physical Planning Division Public Ministry of Housing and Urban Development 3 Leah St Jean Physical Planning Physical Planning Division Public Assistant Ministry of Housing and Urban Development 4 Kendell Barrie GIS Specialist / Lands and Surveys Division Public Surveyor Ministry of Housing and Urban Development 5 Vivian Eugene Land Surveyor Lands and Surveys Division Public Supervisor Ministry of Housing and Urban Development 6 Nick LaRocque GIS Specialist / Lands and Surveys Division Public Surveyor Ministry of Housing and Urban Development 7 Kester Peter Land Surveyor Lands and Surveys Division Public Ministry of Housing and Urban Development 8 Ricky Brumant Director of The Division of Agriculture Public Agriculture Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy 9 Davis Carbon Agricultural The Division of Agriculture Public Extension Officer Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy 10 Jowanick Charles Agricultural The Division of Agriculture Public Extension Officer Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy 11 Stanton Guiste Agricultural The Division of Agriculture Public Extension Officer Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy 12 Natalia Lugay Veterinarian The Division of Agriculture Public Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy 13 Don Mitchel Data Manager / Drone The Division of Agriculture Public Pilot Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy 14 Lycelle Registe Technician The Division of Agriculture Public Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy 15 Adisa Trotter Agriculture Officer The Division of Agriculture Public Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy 16 Keston Williams Agricultural The Division of Agriculture Public Extension Officer Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy 59 17 Kurt Hilton Fisheries Officer Fisheries Division Public Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy 18 Derrick Theophille Director of Fisheries Fisheries Division Public Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy 19 Jacqueline Andre Forest Officer Forestry, Wildlife and Parks Division Public Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy 20 Bradley Guye Assistant Forest Forestry, Wildlife and Parks Division Public Officer Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy 21 Hihson Bougouneau GIS Analyst Central Statistics Office Public Ministry of Finance, Economic Development, Climate Resilience and Social Security 22 Dwayne Dick Survey Statistician Central Statistics Office Public Ministry of Finance, Economic Development, Climate Resilience and Social Security 23 Brent Ismael Statistical Officer Central Statistics Office Public Ministry of Finance, Economic Development, Climate Resilience and Social Security 24 Malcolm Belle Technical Officer Technical Services Division- Road Surveys Unit Public Ministry of Public Works, Public Utilities and Digital Economy 25 James Gregoire Principal Engineering Technical Services Division- Road Surveys Unit Public Supervisor Ministry of Public Works, Public Utilities and Digital Economy 26 Charles Louis Database ICT Unit Public Administrator Ministry of Public Works, Public Utilities and Digital Economy 27 Janelle Garraway- Program Officer Office of Disaster Management Public McPherson Ministry of National Security and Home Affairs 28 Fitzroy Pascal National Disaster Office of Disaster Management Public Coordinator Ministry of National Security and Home Affairs 29 Ithoma James Chief Meteorologist Dominica Meteorological Service Public Ministry of National Security and Home Affairs 30 Tassie Thomas Chief Environmental Environmental Health Department Public Health Officer Ministry of Health, Wellness and Social Services 31 Makeda Warner Geography Lecturer Dominica State College Statutory Bodies 32 Jefferson Durand Senior Engineering Dominica Water and Sewage Company Limited Statutory Technician (DOWASCO) Bodies 33 Magnus Williams Chief Engineer Dominica Water and Sewage Company Limited Statutory (DOWASCO) Bodies 34 Gideon Dalrymple GIS Mapping Design and Costing Department Statutory Technician Dominica Electricity Services (DOMLEC) Bodies 35 Edsel Carriere Outside Plant Digicel Dominica Private Engineer/ Supervisor 36 Davidson Edwards Co-Founder Shopdm Private 37 Mahalis Alcendor Co-Founder and CFO Open Solutions for Health Ltd. Private 38 Gabrielle Abraham GIS Specialist / Smith Warner International Ltd. Private Project Manager for 60 the Coastal Vulnerability Hazard Project 39 Shania Scotland Climate Smart World University Service of Canada NGO Agriculture Officer 40 Aliyah Breedy Junior MEL Officer IsraAID NGO 41 Arnelle Isaac Disaster Services and Humanitarian OpenStreetMap Team NGO Climate Resilience Specialist 42 Taihisa Hill-Guye GIS Consultant Independent Independent 61 Appendix 2: Externally funded GIS investments Appendix 2 lists all externally funded projects with a geospatial component, which Dominica has been a beneficiary of since the first GIS project in 1995. This list is not exhaustive and several of the budgets are approximate unless otherwise specified or sourced. Project Dates Active Activities Approximate Budget for Dominica (USD) GIS 1995-1997 The Physical Planning Division (PPD) is the lead Unknown Implementation government agency with GIS capability. This was at the Physical achieved through assistance from UNCHS Planning (equipment) and CIDA (training), as was the case Division with St Lucia’s and St Vincent and the Grenadines’ Planning Departments. Personnel: In developing the capability, two of the planners had 24 weeks of training in-house between June 1995 and June 1997 on the software by a consultant. This training was implemented around the development of databases. Apart from the two planners, there is a technician with less exposure and training. The UK Overseas Ordnance Survey maps were the main source of data. Other government departments were requested to submit data for incorporation into a national database.80 80 https://www.un.org/esa/sustdev/natlinfo/indicators/idsd/pdf/GISreport.pdf 62 Caribbean 1993-1999 The Caribbean Disaster Mitigation Project (CDMP) $5,000,000 Disaster was a joint effort of the Organization of American Mitigation States (OAS) and the US Agency for International Project Development (USAID), with the aim of establishing sustainable public/private disaster mitigation mechanisms that measurably lessen loss of life, reduce potential damage, and shorten the disaster recovery period. The project was executed from September 1993 to December 1999. For Dominica, this project collected various vulnerability maps, particularly storm surge and wave hazards. Training in hazard mapping was also provided to Physical Planners. Caribbean 2002-2005 The Caribbean Disaster Emergency Response Unknown Disaster Agency (CDERA) is implementing two major regional Management initiatives which are designed to reduce (CADM) Project vulnerability to natural and technological hazards.81 and Caribbean This project created some local flood maps for Hazard Dominica as well as the Volcanic Hazard Map Mitigation Capacity Building Programme (CHAMP) Development of 2006 The overall objective of this consultancy is to Unknown Landslide develop a landslide hazard map and focus on the Hazard Map and development of individual hazard maps such as Multi-Hazard river and coastal flooding, seismic and volcanic Assessment for activity, and hurricane-strength wind maps. Dominica, West Indies 81 https://dipecholac.net/docs/files/524-1110.pdf 63 Sustainable 2006-2011 Community vulnerability maps and adaptation plans $468,468.6982 Land have been developed in 11 vulnerable communities Management in Dominica through a consultative process Project I undertaken by trained extension officers in the Departments of Agriculture, Forestry, Fisheries, Environment, Local Government, Physical Planning and Health working with local residents and village councils. This work was undertaken under a collaborative initiative supported by two Global Environment Facility (GEF) funded projects, namely the (GEF/UNDP) Sustainable Land Management (SLM) Project and the GEF/World Bank Special Program on Adaptation to Climate Change (SPACC) Project. Sustainable 2018-Present Set-up of a land information decision support $1,776,484 (and Land system. Support for DomiNode. PPD is the primary co-financing) Management focal point, but the Ministry of Agriculture is also Project II involved. The coordination arrangements are (Partnership for unclear as there is a central PISLM agency and Sustainable UNEP involved. Land Management Project) Unified Land 2008 -2017 EU funded project to create a digital cadastre. It $1,200,00083 Information was successful in creating the public lands System cadastre but did not proceed with private lands due to difficulties in the LSD adopting the proposed workflow. Hurricane Maria destroyed the sever hosting the system and it has been inactive since. 82 https://publicpartnershipdata.azureedge.net/gef/GEFDocuments/dd7e52be-de7c-e811-8124- 3863bb2e1360/TE/TerminalEvaluationTE_3460%20Annex%201%20TOR%20UNDP%20GEF%20SLM%20Terminal%20Eva luation-3.pdf 83 https://dominicanewsonline.com/news/homepage/news/economy-development/government-launches-unified-land- information-system 64 Agricultural Early 2000s Setup of an Agricultural Information Management $250,000 Information to 2017 System (AIMS) and the AICTU by the consulting firm Management Spatial Innovision. This included significant server System (AIMS) hardware and a deployment of ArcGIS Desktop and and the Farmer Server. The hardware was not utilized and was Census destroyed by Hurricane Maria. These efforts were funded by the EU Agricultural Diversification Programme and the FAO. The budget is a rough estimate based on the cost of the hardware/software and training provided. Open Data for August 2012- Training on GeoNode and support for deploying $100,000 Resilience 13 GeoNode in Dominica. This covered a workshop Initiative (August, 2012) with stakeholders to gauge needs. (Regional Assistance to the ICT Unit to setup GeoNode, data Project) management assistance to Physical Planning (this was the 2012 data inventory and needs assessment). Dominica: 2012-2017 3 years of training and engineering assessments of $719,829 Spatial Data schools and shelters (2013-15) with the Management development of data management practices, 3 and years of datasets with thorough details on Identification of collective shelter suitability and building the Most characteristics. Detailed procedures manual for Vulnerable shelter assessments and 3 years of training with Schools and engineering, ODM and local government staff. As Shelters soon as the then head of the Local government department retired, the assessment process was abandoned. At least 3 rounds of training on ODK and setup of an ODK server was also included. Substantial support for deploying DomiNode was included here. In 2017, DomiNode was transferred to the DVRP. A request was made by ODM last year to bring in training on the structural assessment, we had it arranged and then ODM did not follow up with us. 65 Dominica 2014-Present Component 2 of the DVRP is grant funding to $7,000,000 Disaster advance data collection activities. This included: Vulnerability · ~1 MM USD for the LiDAR/OPM Survey Reduction (including consultant fees for the Project (DVRP) specification and QA/QC) · 1.5 million for the creation of the hydromet network (including consulting fees) · ~1.5 million for the construction of the new hydromet building · ~1 million for the soils survey, including consulting fees. This is ongoing · 220k to support DomiNode · 100k for ESRI Software and training · ~1.5 million in equipment like GPS/ Surveying equipment/CORS, Computers, Servers, and specialized equipment (ADCPs, current profilers) for multiple agencies (PPD, LSD, Forestry, Agriculture, Public Works, Met Services, ODM, DOWASCO). After Hurricane Maria, the project replaced computers that were damaged or stolen after Hurricane Maria. Caribbean 11/2012 - The project covered: Belize, Saint Lucia, Saint $267,791.20 Handbook on 06/2016 Vincent and the Grenadines, Dominica, and Risk Information Grenada. Flood and Landslide susceptibility Management mapping, as well as topographic mapping was (Regional) created for Dominica. Onsite training was performed for gov staff. $1,338,956 total budget. Caribbean Risk 11/2018 - Built GeoCRIS, which is hosting much of Dominica’s $291,042.75 Information 01/2021 hazard data currently. The spending on the Program II platform was (50k HOTOSM, 50k Kartoza), FY 19 (Regional) consulting fees (Software Dev, GIS Tech, GIS Specialist, Web Dev (2) - $124070) FY 2020 consulting fees ~$47840. Mission to Barbados (March 2020) – $19132.75 (13 days, 3 persons). A total of $291,042.75 was spent on activities related to GeoCRIS. 66 Risk Based 2016-18 Surveys of all roads in the country. Georeferenced $400,000 Asset datasets of roads, bridges and culverts was Management created. Estimate includes the platform, RShiny Project dashboard created after the completion of the platform and consulting fees (engineers to prepare specs/manage outputs). Debris Flow 2018-2020 Drone survey work with the University of Michigan. $600,000 Technical University of Leeds and ITC Simulation work for Assistance Maria and Erika. A report for the region on vulnerability curves for infrastructure was also prepared by Miyamoto. Improving 2021-2022 As additional value-added project activities and at $200,000 Agriculture the request of the Government, the project also Resilience and supported capacity-building of specific ADRM work Adaptive priorities, including the establishment and training Capacity to of a UAS and drones mapping and geospatial team. Secure Food The main capacity-building topics included i) basic And Rural UAS operations; ii) advanced UAS Operations; iii) Livelihoods In basic GIS for ADRM and natural resources The management and iv) participatory GIS. Capacities Commonwealth were also built during the workshops on the Of Dominica development of the updated ADRM strategy and hurricane preparedness and response plan. Digital Earth for 2022- The objective of this activity is to raise awareness $1,400,000 a Resilient Present and enhance local capacity in the Caribbean to Caribbean make use of Earth Observation (EO) data and services in support of World Bank resilient infrastructure and housing operations A Global 2022- The FMM sub-programme aims to establish a Global $250,000 Network on Present Network Digital Agriculture Innovation Hubs in Digital countries to mainstream digital agriculture ($1,020,000 total) Agriculture innovation while promoting the digital Innovation Hubs transformation of agri-food systems. The sub- programme has implementations currently ongoing in the following four countries: Dominica, Ethiopia, Grenada and Morocco. 67 Transportation 2023- UK FCDO funded and executed technical assistance Unknown Asset Present project to build on the Risk-Based Asset Management Management Project completed in 2018. The main Project purpose is to train MoPW staff in the collection of georeferenced data on road and infrastructure condition. Caribbean 2022 – Caribbean Development Bank funded technical $300,000 Development Present assistance to digitize the PPD’s application intake Bank PPD processes and update its mapping of development Digitization applications. Project HIT Reset 2023 - Smith Warner International coastal vulnerability $380,000 Caribbean – Present mapping of select communities and support for ($3,500,000 total) Coastal Zone DomiNode. Mapping National 2022 - Undersea mapping of coastal areas and water Unknown Geographic Present sampling. The fisheries division is the main focal Pristine Seas point. Program 68 Appendix 3: Data Inventory Appendix 3 includes a list of existing datasets for Dominica identified through a data inventory conducted by the Digital Earth for a Resilient Caribbean project in June 2023. Title Formats Spatial Info (CRS – EPSG Code) 1 Dominica Administrative Boundary Level 0 vector 4326 2 Dominica Administrative Boundary Level 1 vector 4326 3 Dominica Administrative Boundary Level 2 vector 4326 4 Dominica Topographic Map pdf 5 Dominica Contours (50 m interval) vector 4326 6 Dominica Digital Elevation Model raster 3857 7 LiDAR LAS Tiles las 32620 8 LiDAR Raster Tiles adf 32620 9 Contour Vector Tiles shp 32620 10 Waveform data wdp 11 Merged_Land_DTM geotiff 32620 12 Merged_bathy_DTM geotiff 32620 13 Merged_DSM geotiff 32620 14 Mosiac_Merged_TB_DTM geotiff 32620 15 Sat_50cm_CIR geotiff 32620 16 Airphoto_20cm geotiff 32620 17 Normalized Height Model (NHM) geotiff 32620 18 Merged_Ortho_sat geotiff 32620 19 Aspect geotiff 32620 20 Slope geotiff 32620 21 Sat_tiles_20cm geotiff 32620 22 GoCD_Buildings geotiff 32620 23 Dominica Aerial Orthophotography Tiles geotiff 32620 24 Source-SAT_50cm_From_PlanetLabs Tiles geotiff 32620 25 GoCD_Bathymetry_Point_Cloud_Tile_UTM_Zone20_WGS84 shp 32620 26 GoCD_Ortho_Tile_index shp 32620 27 GoCD_Topo_Point_Cloud_Tile_UTM_Zone20_WGS84 shp 32620 28 GoCD_Topo_Shoreline shp 32620 29 GoCD_Airphoto_Mission_1 shp 32620 30 GoCD_Airphoto_Mission_2 shp 32620 31 GoCD_LiDAR_Mission1 shp 32620 32 GoCD_LiDAR_Mission2 shp 32620 33 GoCD_NextMap1 shp 32620 34 GoCD_Project_AOI shp 32620 35 GoCD_Satellite_2015_2019 shp 32620 36 GoCD_Trajectory_Lines shp 32620 37 GoCD_Trajectory_Points shp 32620 38 GoCD_Breaklines shp 32620 69 39 GoCD_Lakes_Ponds shp 32620 40 GoCD_Watershed_Primary shp 32620 41 GoCD_Road_Network shp 32620 42 GoCD_Stream_Network shp 32620 43 GoCD_Watershed shp 32620 44 GNSS Continuously Operating Reference Site (CORS) Data RINEX 45 Census Buildings vector 46 fish_marine-protected-areas_v1.0.0 vector 47 fish_ports_v1.0.0 vector 48 hwnh_health-facilities_v.1.0.0 vector 49 lsd_airports_v1.0.0 vector 50 lsd_beaches_v.1.0.0 vector 51 lsd_census-parishes_v1.0.0 vector 52 lsd_coastline_v1.0.0 vector 53 lsd_contours-10m_v1.0.0 vector 54 lsd_dem-10m_v1.0.0 vector 55 lsd_land-cover_v.1.0.0 vector 56 lsd_magnetic-declination-2020_v1.0.0 vector 57 lsd_mountains_v1.0.0 vector 58 lsd_national-parks_v1.0.0 vector 59 lsd_protected-areas_v1.0.0 vector 60 lsd_rivers_v1.0.0 vector 61 ppd_rivers_v1.0.0 vector 62 lsd_roads-v1.0.0 vector 63 lsd_soil_v1.0.0 vector 64 lsd_topomap-degree-block_v1.0.0 vector 65 lsd_topomap-filter-values_v1.0.0 vector 66 lsd_topomap-index-10000_v1.0.0 vector 67 lsd_topomap-index-5000_v1.0.0 vector 68 lsd_topomap-index-2500_v1.0.0 vector 69 lsd_topomap-labels-lines_v1.0.0 vector 70 lsd_topomap-labels-points_v1.0.0 vector 71 lsd_tourist-sites_v1.0.0 vector 72 lsd_trigonometric-beacons_v1.0.0 vector 73 CORS kmz 74 Primary Control vector 75 Secondary Control vector 76 lsd_waitukubuli-trail_v1.0.0 vector 77 lsd_water-bodies_v1.0.0 vector 78 met_rainfall-estimates_v1.0.0 vector 79 ppd_building-footprints-rosseau_v1.0.0 vector 80 ppd_coral-seagrass_v1.0.0 vector 81 ppd_district-boundaries_v1.0.0 vector 82 ppd_estates_v1.0.0 vector 83 ppd_household-buildings_v1.0.0 vector 84 ppd_police-stations_v1.0.0 vector 85 ppd_schools_v1.0.0 vector 70 86 Shelter Management System vector 87 ppd_shelters-public-services_v1.0.0 vector 88 ppd_sports-grounds_v1.0.0 vector 89 Subdivisions of Land vector 90 ppd_towns_v1.0.0 vector 91 dagr_merge agriculture region polygon_v0.0.1 vector 92 fish_vegetables-crop_v1.0.0 vector 93 hwnh_health-districts_v1.0.0 vector 94 lsd_published-topomap-series-10000_v1.0.0 vector 95 lsd_published-topomap-series-5000_v1.0.0 vector 96 lsd_published-topomap-series-2500_v1.0.0 vector 97 lsd_topomap-compass-rose-location-2020_v1.0.0 vector 98 lidar_index_dominica_series1086_v1.0.0 vector 99 dominica_Ikonos raster 100 Portsmouth_Ikonos raster 101 Roseau_Ikonos raster 102 South_Dominica_QBird_Mosaic_Feb2005 raster 103 Roseau_50cm raster 104 Electric Lines and Infrastructure vector 105 Building Polygons vector 106 Electrical Meters vector 107 dowasco_supplypipeline_v1.0.0 vector 108 dowasco_storagetanks_v1.0.0 vector 109 dowasco_sumptanks_v1.0.0 vector 110 dowasco_intakes_v1.0.0 vector 111 dowasco_pumpstations_v1.0.0 vector 112 Cell towers vector 113 Settlement Boundaries pdf 114 Official Settlement Boundaries Paper document 115 police radio infrastructure 116 road reserves 117 roads (actual dimensions) vector 118 tsunami escape routes 119 Dominica Administrative Boundary Level 0 vector 120 Dominica Administrative Boundary Level 1 vector 121 Dominica Administrative Boundary Level 2 vector 122 Dominica Topographic Map pdf 123 Dominica Hillshade raster 124 Dominica landslide susceptibility assessment report pdf 125 Dominica Flash Flood hazard assessment Report pdf 126 Dominica earthquake susceptibility (2006) vector 127 Dominica Flash Flood Susceptibility raster 128 Dominica Land cover raster 129 Dominica Landslide susceptibility (2006) vector 130 Dominica Landslides TS Erika vector 131 Dominica Landslide Susceptibility vector 132 Dominica Landslides degraff vector 71 133 Dominica Multi-Hazard susceptibility (2006) vector 134 Dominica Quarries (2014) vector 135 Dominica River Infill Areas vector 136 Dominica Sand mining area vector 137 Dominica Storm surge susceptibility (2006) vector 138 Dominica Windstorm susceptibility (2006) vector 139 Dominica Landslides 2007 vector 140 Dominica Historical Landslides (2015) vector 141 Dominica Landslides Tropical Storm Erika (Points) vector 142 Dominica Landslides Hurricane Maria vector 143 Dominica OSM buildings vector 144 Dominica Waterfalls vector 145 Dominica Bay Points vector 146 Dominica Flood hazard raster 147 Dominica Flash Flood Susceptibility raster 148 Dominica Geological map vector 149 Dominica Land Cover raster 150 Dominica OSM point data vector 151 Dominica Road Network (affected by Landslides) vector 152 Dominica Road Network vector 153 Dominica Volcanic susceptibility (2006) vector 154 Dominica DANA Tropical Storm Erika pdf 155 Public Lands Cadastre shp 156 Dominica Hydromet Platform html 157 bridges vector 4326 158 Towns vector 32620 159 Roads_Old vector 32620 160 Main Roads INES vector 4326 161 Urban Roads INES vector 4326 162 Feeder Roads INES vector 4326 163 Secondary Roads INES vector 4326 164 feeder_criticality vector 4326 165 feeder_natural_risk vector 4326 166 feeder_physical_risk vector 4326 167 main_condition vector 4326 168 main_criticality vector 4326 169 main_natural_risk vector 4326 170 main_physical_risk vector 4326 171 secondary_condition vector 4326 172 secondary_criticality vector 4326 173 secondary_risk_natural vector 4326 174 secondary_risk_physical vector 4326 175 urban_condition vector 4326 176 urban_criticality vector 4326 177 urban_risk_natural vector 4326 178 urban_risk_physical vector 4326 179 Road_Criticality vector 4326 72 180 feeder condition vector 32620 181 road condition vector 32620 182 Road Natural Risk vector 32620 183 Road Physical Risk vector 32620 184 Road Nat Risk vector 32620 185 dma_geo_local_dem_rcp452010_rp1_raster raster 186 dma_geo_local_dem_rcp452010_rp5_raster raster 187 dma_geo_local_dem_rcp452010_rp50_raster raster 188 dma_geo_local_dem_rcp452010_rp10_raster raster 189 dma_geo_local_dem_rcp452010_rp1_raster raster 190 dma_geo_local_dem_rcp452010_rp2_raster raster 191 dma_geo_local_dem_rcp452030_rp10_raster raster 192 dma_geo_local_dem_rcp452030_rp100_raster raster 193 dma_geo_local_dem_rcp452030_rp2_raster raster 194 dma_geo_local_dem_rcp452030_rp1_raster raster 195 dma_geo_local_dem_rcp452030_rp5_raster raster 196 dma_geo_local_dem_rcp452030_rp10_raster raster 197 dma_geo_local_dem_rcp452050_rp1_raster raster 198 dma_geo_local_dem_rcp452050_rp100_raster raster 199 dma_geo_local_dem_rcp452050_rp2_raster raster 200 dma_geo_local_dem_rcp452050_rp5_raster raster 201 dma_geo_local_dem_rcp452050_rp10_raster raster 202 dma_geo_local_dem_rcp452050_rp50_raster raster 203 dma_geo_local_dem_rcp452070_rp10_raster raster 204 dma_geo_local_dem_rcp452070_rp100_raster raster 205 dma_geo_local_dem_rcp452070_rp50_raster raster 206 dma_geo_local_dem_rcp452070_rp1_raster raster 207 dma_geo_local_dem_rcp452070_rp2_raster raster 208 dma_geo_local_dem_rcp452070_rp5_raster raster 209 dma_geo_local_dem_rcp452100_rp10_raster raster 210 dma_geo_local_dem_rcp452100_rp100_raster raster 211 dma_geo_local_dem_rcp452100_rp2_raster raster 212 dma_geo_local_dem_rcp452100_rp1_raster raster 213 dma_geo_local_dem_rcp452100_rp5_raster raster 214 dma_geo_local_dem_rcp452100_rp50_raster raster 215 dma_geo_local_dem_rcp852030_rp1_raster raster 216 dma_geo_local_dem_rcp852030_rp10_raster raster 217 dma_geo_local_dem_rcp852030_rp100_raster raster 218 dma_geo_local_dem_rcp852030_rp2_raster raster 219 dma_geo_local_dem_rcp852030_rp5_raster raster 220 dma_geo_local_dem_rcp852030_rp50_raster raster 221 dma_geo_local_dem_rcp852050_rp1_raster raster 222 dma_geo_local_dem_rcp852050_rp10_raster raster 223 dma_geo_local_dem_rcp852050_rp100_raster raster 224 dma_geo_local_dem_rcp852050_rp2_raster raster 225 dma_geo_local_dem_rcp852050_rp5_raster raster 226 dma_geo_local_dem_rcp852050_rp50_raster raster 73 227 dma_geo_local_dem_rcp852070_rp1_raster raster 228 dma_geo_local_dem_rcp852070_rp10_raster raster 229 dma_geo_local_dem_rcp852070_rp100_raster raster 230 dma_geo_local_dem_rcp852070_rp2_raster raster 231 dma_geo_local_dem_rcp852070_rp5_raster raster 232 dma_geo_local_dem_rcp852070_rp50_raster raster 233 dma_geo_local_dem_rcp852100_rp1_raster raster 234 dma_geo_local_dem_rcp852100_rp10_raster raster 235 dma_geo_local_dem_rcp852100_rp100_raster raster 236 dma_geo_local_dem_rcp852100_rp2_raster raster 237 dma_geo_local_dem_rcp852100_rp5_raster raster 238 dma_geo_local_dem_rcp852100_rp50_raster raster 239 BRI Bridge Catchments shp 240 BRI Bridge Locations shp 32620 241 bridge_simulationprops shp 242 Catchments_Detail shp 243 Maria_FloodQFMax tif 244 Maria_FloodQSMax tif 245 Maria_FloodQWMax tif 246 Maria_SlopeFailure tif 247 Maria_Deposits tif 248 Maria_FloodHFMax tif 249 Maria_FloodHSMax tif 250 Erika_FloodHSMax tif 251 Erika_FloodQFMax tif 252 Erika_FloodQSMax tif 253 Erika_FloodQWMax tif 254 Erika_SlopeFailure tif 255 Erika_Deposits tif 256 Erika_FloodHFMax tif 257 Evidence of equilibrium peak runoff rates in steep tropical pdf terrain on the island of Dominica during Tropical Storm Erika, August 27, 2015 258 Belfast Drone DSM raster 259 Belfast Drone Point Cloud raster 260 Belfast Drone Orthophoto raster 261 Checkhall DSM raster 262 Checkhall Point Cloud raster 263 Checkhall Orthophoto raster 264 Colihaut DSM raster 265 Colihaut Orthophoto raster 266 Colihaut Point Cloud raster 267 Coulibistrie DSM raster 268 Coulibistrie Orthophoto raster 269 Coulibistrie Point Cloud raster 270 Dublanc DSM raster 271 Dublanc Orthophoto raster 74 272 Dublanc Point Cloud raster 273 Geneva Grand Bay DSM raster 274 Geneva Grand Bay Point Cloud raster 275 Geneva Grand Bay Orthophoto raster 276 Melville Hall DSM raster 277 Melville Hall Point Cloud raster 278 Melville Hall Orthophoto raster 279 Pichelin DSM raster 280 Pichelin Point Cloud raster 281 Pichelin Orthophoto raster 282 Roseau DSM raster 283 Roseau Point Cloud raster 284 Roseau Orthophoto raster 285 Physical Planning Drone Imagery raster 286 Lands and Surveys Drone Imagery raster 287 GlobalMedic RescUAV Post-Maria Imagery raster 288 Ministry of Agriculture Drone Imagery raster 289 Office of Disaster Management Drone Imagery raster 290 Ministry of Public Works Drone Data raster 291 Pleaides Scenes raster 292 Worldview Scenes raster 293 1990 Census Layers shp 294 Building Damage Assessment shp 75