Vegetation Information System: Survey Plot
The Vegetation Information System (VIS) vegetation survey database or VIS Plot is the central, authoritative database for systematic vegetation survey data in NSW. Initially, the YETI vegetation survey database was adopted as the VIS vegetation survey database. Functionality of YETI was enhanced in the current database (YETI 3.2). In the future, the existing database (YETI 3.2) will be migrated into a .net/SQL extranet application. The new system will be called VIS Plot.
Existing database (YETI 3.2)
In 2008-09, YETI was modified to align with new field survey protocols (and field survey sheets) documented in the NSW Vegetation Type Standard (soon to be published). A modular field survey approach was introduced which included, for the first time, a vegetation condition survey protocol developed for the Monitoring Evaluation and Reporting Program (MER) for vegetation condition. OEH staff can access the centralised SQL database, while external users are limited to using standalone MS Access database version until the new database is completed.
For assistance in using the database, please consult the YETI 3.2 User Manual(YETI325UserManual18082010, 4MB).
Previous database (YETI 3.1)
YETI was developed by Michael Bedward and Murray Ellis of OEH as a Microsoft Access database designed to enter, query and massage data from plot-based vegetation surveys.
A centralised SQL database was established in the organisation by Phil Gleeson as a first step in centralising the management and access to vegetation survey data. The MS Access front-end application was retained with additional functionality, including the ability to choose between back-end files stored in MS Access or SQL Server. This allowed internal OEH users to access YETI as a centralised database, while external users could continue to use the standalone MS Access version. Progressively, standalone versions have been harvested into the centralised database so it now holds more than 50,000 vegetation plot records.
Frequently asked questions about YETI 3.2
Why is YETI changing?
The YETI database is being upgraded as part of a broader set of initiatives associated with the remediation of NSW vegetation information systems (see Vegetation Information System). The YETI client has been modified to allow the recording of data captured as part of the Vegetation Monitoring Evaluation and Reporting Program and hence to ensure alignment with Vegetation Type Standards (soon to be published). As part of the exercise, the YETI data model and application have been harmonised with the updated Type Standards to make data entry and maintenance as straightforward as possible. The changes made to the application are described in:
When did this take place?
As of 30 November 2009, all YETI data was moved to the new server. Instructions for installation are in the YETI Vegetation Survey Database, Installation Notes (DatabaseInstallationDECCWSQL.pdf, 131kb).
I don't use the SQL Server version of YETI. Does this affect me?
Yes. Your MS Access back-end will continue to work as before. However, if you wish to share data with the OEH corporate repository of YETI data you will need to upgrade to YETI Version 3.2. New back-end files and a set of instructions are contained in installation files available from the VIS administrator for use with the new client.
What will happen if I don't upgrade?
You will be able to view data in the archive but will not be able to enter new data. You will also not see any updates made to data after 30 November 2009.
This latest development involved a lot of work, and the organisation extends sincere thanks to all involved for their help and patience with the process.
More information
For YETI 3.2 installation files and advice please contact the VIS Administrator at: vis@environment.nsw.gov.au
Page last updated: 25 May 2011
